Louisiana School Public Relations Association (LASPRA) has named Ted Beasley, Deputy Chief of Communications for the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), as its 2026 Communicator of the Year.
Beasley will serve as Louisiana’s nominee for the National School Public Relations Association Communicator of the Year. He will be recognized this summer during the NSPRA National Seminar in New Orleans.
Beasley was selected for his strategic leadership, commitment to transparency, and ability to guide communications during one of the most consequential periods in Louisiana education.
Beasley's achievements range from directing communications for several high-profile policy initiatives, including the launch of Louisiana’s LA GATOR Scholarship Program, to a successful communications lead for the annual Teacher Leader Summit where he developed the 2025 theme, “A New Story for Louisiana Education,” and executed a comprehensive communications plan that included live broadcasting, daily newsletters, photography, video storytelling, and real-time updates.
With more than 20 years of experience spanning journalism, classroom instruction, district communications, and state leadership, Beasley currently oversees a cross-functional team responsible for statewide communications at LDOE.
“Simply put, Ted is one of the very best,” said LASPRA President Holly Holland. “His kind spirit extends to everyone who crosses his path, and his ability to communicate compassionately is second to none. LASPRA would not be what it is without Ted and his dedication to people and to the work. We are proud to have Ted represent LASPRA as our Communicator of the Year, as this award truly reflects his heart for the students, teachers, staff, and stakeholders across Louisiana.”
For more information visit about LASPRA and its annual awards program visit, www.laspra.org.
