From staff reports
Beaufort County School District Superintendent Frank Rodriguez has been selected as a 2023 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). Rodriguez joins just 24 other superintendents nationwide who were selected for the honor in recognition of their innovative and effective use of technology to engage and inform the school community, and to expand two-way communication and outreach efforts.
“It’s an honor to receive this recognition,” Rodriguez said in a news release. “The power of effective communication and engagement cannot be understated. It has been, and will continue to be, a top-priority for the district, and it’s one of my favorite parts of serving the citizens of Beaufort County.”
As BCSD’s “Proud Superintendent,” Rodriguez’s innovative approach includes bilingual robocalls to families and employees and strategic district social media outreach, reaching more than 1.2 million people on Facebook alone this year. In addition to the successful 2019 $344 million referendum, the 2023 $439 million referendum received overwhelming support from Beaufort County citizens, reflecting Rodriguez’s ability to educate and inform the public.
Beyond digital outreach, Rodriguez actively connects with the community (with more than 75 speaking engagements this year), grants numerous media interviews, and champions robust communication efforts. His commitment extends to classroom involvement, where he showcases effective instructional practices, emphasizing support for educators through participation in Teacher Forum and Teacher Advisory meetings.
Furthermore, his dedication to fostering leadership is evident in initiatives like the Aspiring Principal Institute, promoting growth and excellence among future school leaders.
Under Rodriguez’s leadership, the district launched BCSD Connected, an online engagement platform allowing stakeholders to contribute input on various projects. In 2022, a comprehensive digital strategy unfolded with the introduction of new district and school websites, reinforcing the goal of providing timely and accurate communications for BCSD families and the community.
Looking ahead, a forthcoming rebrand strategy, shaped by community input, aims to position BCSD prominently in South Carolina’s public education landscape, reflecting the district’s defining spirit and resonating with future generations. Dr. Rodriguez stands not only as a superintendent overseeing the district but as a genuine role model and accessible leader, meeting regularly with student advisory groups to address concerns and innovative ideas.
“This year’s honorees understand the critical role that effective, two-way communication plays in building trust with students, families, employees and community members,” said NSPRA Executive Director Barbara M. Hunter, APR. “Each of these leaders have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to championing innovative communication strategies to advance their district’s success.”
NSPRA had a record number of nominations this year — more than 70 — and many exceptional candidates, making the selection process very competitive. Since the 2015-16 school year, NSPRA has recognized 152 school district leaders as Superintendents to Watch. Honorees must have fewer than five years of experience as a superintendent and demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core.
