Sauk Prairie School District’s Jeff Wright named ‘one to watch’

Sauk Prairie School District Superintendent Jeff Wright has recently been named a ’Superintendent to Watch’ by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). Wright joins just 18 other superintendents nationwide who were selected for the honor in recognition of their use of technology to engage and inform the school community, and to expand two-way communication and outreach efforts. As a teacher and administrator, Mr. Wright has built meaningful relationships to fuel school growth, has directed school improvement efforts that have been met with great success, and created partnerships throughout the community to empower academic and economic opportunity. “Strong communication at the district level continues to be more important than ever in keeping school families, employees, students, and community stakeholders well-informed and engaged,” said NSPRA Executive Director Barbara M. Hunter, APR. “We’re proud to recognize this year’s recipients who are committed to championing innovative communication efforts as an integral part of their district’s success.” Wright was nominated by Joëlle Doye, Mineral Point Unified School District Communications Director and NSPRA President-Elect. He is just the second Wisconsin superintendent to receive this prestigious honor, joining Mark Duerwaechter of the Kaukauna Area School District who won the award in 2016. “One of the traits I most admire about Mr. Wright is skillful listening,” said Doye. “He is never the first to respond and state his opinion. Rather, he is genuinely interested in what other members of the group have to say and takes all thoughts into consideration before speaking, making everyone feel valued. Listening is often an overlooked trait that is vital to being an effective communicator.” “Jeff is a master at many aspects of communication including relationship building, trust formation, purposeful risk-taking, continuous improvement, and leading with a clear mind and caring heart -- all in the name of student success,” she added. Retired Sauk Prairie Superintendent Dr. Cliff Thompson said the following about Wright: “Jeff is an exemplary educational leader in the essential role of superintendent. He has given complete commitment to his position, place, and people. Jeff led the passing of a $65 million referendum and continues to implement the building phases of the generous gift from the Sauk Prairie community. Prior to that referendum, Jeff co-led another referendum as Assistant Superintendent of $34.6 million in 2014. What an amazing statement of trust through communication and commitment that Jeff has built as a district leader.” Follow along with Mr. Wright’s spirited Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/suptjeff/ Since the 2015-16 school year, NSPRA has recognized 102 school district leaders as Superintendents to Watch. Honorees must have fewer than five years of experience as a superintendent and must demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core. The full list of this year’s honorees is available here: https://www.nspra.org/meet-2021-nspra-superintendents-watch