Oskaloosa Schools’ Justin DeVore Named Iowa’s Communicator of the Year
OSKALOOSA, Iowa – Justin DeVore, who leads communications, marketing, and engagement for the Oskaloosa Community School District, has been named the 2026-27 Communicator of the Year by the Iowa School Public Relations Association (ISPRA).
The statewide honor was announced on Thursday, October 15, at the organization’s fall conference in Des Moines.
The award goes to school communications professionals who show leadership and help build stronger connections between public schools, families, and their communities.
DeVore joined the Oskaloosa district in 2023, and this recognition comes after more than ten years working in school communications and public relations.
A Statewide Recognition for School Leadership
The Iowa School Public Relations Association gives the Communicator of the Year award every two years.
ISPRA says the award goes to people who know that keeping families and communities informed is a key part of school leadership.
The award is open to professionals working in school districts and educational agencies across Iowa. School public relations professionals from other states review the entries.
Unlike awards for a single publication, video, or social media campaign, the Communicator of the Year honor looks at a person’s overall leadership and dedication to better communication.
School communications professionals do more than just announce school events or share photos.
Their work includes explaining school board decisions, sharing emergency updates, helping families understand district programs, keeping staff informed, and making sure residents get accurate information about their schools.
More Than a Decade of Experience
Before joining Oskaloosa, DeVore worked in communications and community engagement for the Charles City Community School District in northern Iowa.
He also has experience in television news production and community involvement.
During his career, DeVore has helped school districts earn statewide recognition for their communications, including several Blue & Gold Awards from ISPRA.
These awards honor excellence in school communications projects, such as materials and programs created to inform and engage school communities.
Since coming to Oskaloosa, DeVore has focused on public communications, marketing, and connecting with families and community members.
Part of his work has been helping prospective families learn more about what Oskaloosa Schools offers.
A case study published in September 2025 by Apptegy, the company behind the district’s website, highlighted Oskaloosa’s efforts to improve communication with families thinking about enrolling their children.
These efforts include student-led school tours, which let visiting families learn about the district directly from students.
The district also uses its website and digital tools to make school information easier to find and to help families set up visits.
This approach gives families chances to learn about school programs, ask questions, and better understand what students experience in Oskaloosa classrooms.
Superintendent Recognizes DeVore’s Work
Oskaloosa Superintendent Mike Fisher praised DeVore for taking a broad approach to school communications, including planning, clear information, and community involvement.
In the district’s announcement, Fisher highlighted DeVore’s work in crisis communications, marketing, community outreach, and professional leadership.
Fisher also stressed the importance of building trust and keeping strong relationships among students, families, staff, and the wider community.
The district said DeVore’s work supports its goal to create a school environment that empowers and inspires students.
Why School Communication Matters
Public schools make decisions that impact students, families, staff, and taxpayers.
Whether it’s changes to school schedules, programs, budgets, safety, or policies, residents rely on timely information to know what’s happening in their schools.
Good communication also lets families ask questions, get involved in school activities, and better understand decisions made by district leaders.
The Iowa School Public Relations Association highlights these responsibilities through its professional development programs and statewide awards.
The Communicator of the Year award honors professionals whose work goes beyond sharing information and helps schools build relationships with the people they serve.
DeVore’s selection brings statewide recognition to Oskaloosa’s communications efforts and the work being done to connect its schools with the community.
DeVore will hold the title of Communicator of the Year for 2026-27.
