Congratulations to #PointerNation’s Communications Director Joëlle Doye who has been named the Rural School Advocate of the Year by the Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance (WiRSA) during the organization’s state conference October 28 in Wisconsin Dells!
The WiRSA Board of Directors established this award to recognize an individual educator, legislator, business/industry leader, or community leader in Wisconsin who has devoted significant time and contributed substantial effort to strengthen and preserve rural schools in Wisconsin.
Earlier this year, Joelle concluded her term as President of the Wisconsin School Public Relations Association (WSPRA), the first time this role had been held by someone from a small, rural school district in the organization’s 57 year history.
Joelle’s WSPRA Presidency provided rural schools a seat at the table and a voice at the state level on many key educational issues.
Nearly 70% of Wisconsin’s 421 school districts are considered “rural.” With so many members of Wisconsin’s next generation learning in rural schools, it’s vital we prioritize the unique needs of these educators and students.
Joelle’s advocacy for rural school storytelling has resulted in many districts adding communication capacity, with WSPRA now over 300 members strong.
“I don’t believe any zip code should determine whether the success stories of schools, students, and staff are shared,” she said. “Rural schools, staffed by caring individuals, are the heart of our small communities and provide incredible opportunities to our young people.”
She is pictured with award presenter Patti Vickman, Wisconsin Association of School Boards Search and Governance Consultant and retired Southern Door County School District Superintendent, who is a member of the WiRSA Board and a past WiRSA Administrator of the Year Award winner.