Dr. Ryan Named 2024 MSPRA Superintendent Communicator of the Year

At the Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education meeting on November 11, 2024, Superintendent Dr. Shawn Ryan was honored as the Michigan School Public Relations Association (MSPRA) 2024 Superintendent Communicator of the Year. This esteemed award, a surprise to Dr. Ryan, recognizes one Michigan superintendent annually for outstanding leadership and an exceptional commitment to effective communication.

“It is my honor to present one of MSPRA’s most prestigious awards to a leader who embodies communication excellence. Dr. Ryan’s dedication to transparency, ethics, and proactive communication has fostered a sense of trust and connection throughout the Clarkston community.”
- MSPRA representative and Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator for West Bloomfield School District Rebecca Fannon -

According to MSPRA’s national expert judging panel, Dr. Ryan exemplifies the attributes of a top communicator: he invests in year-round communication, supports district communication resources, collaborates strategically with communication professionals, and demonstrates integrity, honesty, and active listening. Throughout his nearly three-decade career at Clarkston Community Schools, he has built his reputation as a committed community builder and public education advocate, with his communication style rooted in accessibility, transparency, and respect, and his approach to district communications reflects Clarkston’s core values: relationship-building, collaboration, and active presence. His leadership has been instrumental in numerous initiatives, including the recent bond campaign, which emphasized fiscal responsibility, safety, and the importance of preparing students for the future.

“We are immensely proud of Dr. Ryan and this well-deserved recognition. His commitment to transparent, effective communication has strengthened our district and inspired trust within our school community. This award highlights the positive impact his leadership has made across Clarkston.”
- Board President Greg Need -

About Clarkston Community Schools: Clarkston is a highly regarded school district with an enrollment of nearly 6,500 students. We have seven elementary schools (K-5), one middle school serving grades 6-7, one junior high for grades 8-9, and Clarkston High School, which serves students in grades 10-12. We also have a virtual academy, an Early Childhood Center serving children ages 3-5, and an alternative high school/community education facility. Clarkston Community Schools students are well-prepared for a future that excites them, and believe that they can achieve their dreams. The mission of Clarkston Community Schools is to create a learning environment where students, staff, and families are challenged, healthy, engaged, safe, and supported.