The PenSPRA Key Communicator Award honors an education professional who has successfully contributed to the field of school communications. This year’s Key Communicator Award goes to Dr. Eric J. Becoats, who serves as the superintendent of William Penn School District (WPSD).

Dr. Becoats joined WPSD in the beginning of 2020, taking on the role during a time greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the turbulence of the pandemic, he diligently built a strong foundation based on the establishment of clear communication channels and strong community relationships with the district.

He later used that foundation to garner staff and community input to launch the WPSD strategic plan, as well as a tracking document that shows the progress made and how it impacts the district. This approach displayed clear outcomes, all of which was shared on the district website to facilitate community knowledge, engagement, and transparency. Following the development of the strategic plan, Dr. Becoats launched annual surveys for staff, students, and their families. The findings from the surveys inform the strategic plan and are shared with the district community, ensuring continuous growth and improvement.

Additionally, Dr. Becoats has streamlined communications with the community through consistent connection and messaging, from creating a bi-weekly video update to staff, students, and their families to holding quarterly convocations with staff members and advisory councils with district families. He also created an employee of the month program to recognize the work of WPSD teachers and staff and enhance internal engagement.

“We are proud to recognize Dr. Becoats as a true champion of education communications in Pennsylvania,” said Christa Fazio, executive director of PenSPRA. “The PenSPRA Key Communicator Award is a testament to Dr. Becoat’s unwavering commitment to open and transparent communication and meaningful engagement. He exemplifies the qualities of a key communicator, consistently demonstrating excellence in communication and a genuine commitment to fostering positive relationships across the district community. He is truly deserving of this distinguished honor.”