Mitchell Roush Named 2026 Nebraska School Communicator of the Year
The Nebraska School Public Relations Association (NebSPRA) has named Mitchell Roush, Director of Communications for Grand Island Public Schools, its 2026 Nebraska School Communicator of the Year.
Roush received the NebSPRA 2026 School Communicator of the Year Award, powered by Class Intercom, at the organization’s communication conference on Nov. 18.
"Mitch has redefined what it means to lead with both vision and heart," says Dr. Jill Johnson of Class Intercom. She notes his ability to guide the district through challenging budget conversations with clarity and empathy, while innovative initiatives like the cell phone-free campaign at Grand Island Senior High showcase his forward-thinking approach.
Roush expressed gratitude for being nominated and receiving the award.
"Being named Nebraska School Communicator of the Year means the great work of our educators and students at Grand Island Public Schools are being recognized,” Roush said. “It means the meaningful work our GIPS Communications Team puts in every day is being recognized. It means that public education's role in strengthening communities is being recognized.”
Colleagues describe Roush as an innovative leader who excels at making complex topics accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.
Roush hosts the district's podcast and was recently asked to host a national podcast. His signature question—"What's one thing about public education that you wish people understood?"—consistently sparks meaningful dialogue. Colleagues note he has a unique ability to "get people to eat their vegetables" without them realizing it.
Beyond his district work, Roush is a sought-after speaker at national and state conferences. He's consulted with districts nationwide on communication strategies, including helping an Oklahoma district adopt a cell phone-free policy.
“Mitch is an integral part of our district leadership team,” GIPS Superintendent Matt Fisher shared. “He is a great thought partner, and his forethought and deep thinking in turn supports our GIPS students, families, staff and community.”
The NebSPRA 2026 School Communicator of the Year Award honors outstanding individuals from the school public relations profession in Nebraska.
The program recognizes the leadership and contributions of active, front-line school communicators working full-time in school districts or education service agencies.
Fisher commented on Roush’s diligent work to keep stakeholders informed about news happening across the district and in GIPS schools.
“His promotion of our district is phenomenal,” Fisher said. “He is continually bringing forward positive stories that really serve to highlight the great things that are happening in our district and in our classrooms.”
Roush said it’s an honor for him to serve as the communications director at Grand Island Public Schools.
“We do the work of School Public Relations because the great things taking place in our schools deserve the spotlight. And this work wouldn't be noticed and wouldn't make an impact without the support of our District Administration, Board of Education, and our schools,” he said. “I'm fortunate to have the best job in a fantastic district.”
The state-level winner is eligible to compete for the National School Public Relations Association Communicator of the Year Award.