Gold Medallion Awards

Any project using the RPIE process may be eligible, but the following recommended categories often best fit the rigorous standards set for scoring this award:

• Bond/Finance Campaign
• Comprehensive Strategic Communication Program
• Crisis Communications
• Marketing Campaign
• Public Engagement Campaign
• Special Communications Project

All submissions must be structured using the following requirements:

• Page 1 - cover page with entry information
• Page 2 - A synopsis of the project/program/campaign (maximum 350 words)
• Pages 3-8 - A summary following the RPIE process including links to key support materials (websites, videos, social media posts, PDFs, etc) (maximum of 6 pages)
• Pages 9-26 - Additional support material as needed (samples, brief synopses or links to support materials are sufficient)
• Total entry should not exceed 26 pages

Submissions are judged individually. Submissions scoring a weighted average of 90% or higher receive the Gold Medallion award.

Overall Criteria

• The project is based in strategic communication best practices;
• The concept is clear & the writing is free of errors;
• The content is well-organized, visually appealing, & appropriate;
• The program, school, and/or district brand is portrayed consistently; and
• The project fulfills the states objectives/goals.

Research (15% of total score)

• Is the reason for the project explained?
• Is there evidence of quality & varied methods of research performed?
• Were the findings used to guide the planning?
• Are project goals & measurable objectives stated?

Planning (45% of total score)

• Were target audiences identified?
• Were strategies determined for accomplishing objectives?
• What stakeholders were involved in the planning process?
• Were a variety of communication tactics proposed to reach target audiences?
• What, if any, relevant training was provided for key staff?
• Was a communications budget developed?
• Were team roles & responsibilities identified?

Implementation (25% of total score)

• Did the team create a timeline & meet key dates?
• Were planned strategies & tactics implemented?
• What key messages were used to support the goals & objectives?
• Was audience response monitored in any way?
• Was the design of materials visually appealing?
• Was appropriate & clear language used in communications?

Evaluation (15% of total score)

• Was the project successful based on the goals & objectives?
• What indicators were used to measure success?
• Was specific data collected related to the effectiveness of specific strategies & tactics?
• Were opportunities for improvement explored for future projects?
• What next steps were identified?