Dr. Andi Fourlis of Mesa Public Schools has been selected as a 2021 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association.

Fourlis joins 19 other superintendents nationwide who were selected for the honor in recognition of their innovative and effective use of technology to engage and inform the school community, and to expand two-way communication and outreach efforts, according to a release.

“I am honored to be named a Superintendent to Watch,” Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Fourlis said in the release. “Throughout the pandemic, our team has prioritized transparent, two-way communication to keep our community informed and engaged. It is rewarding to see our work recognized at a national level.”

Fourlis was recognized for initiatives including the Safe.Strong.Ready. school-reopening plan, expansion of Latino community outreach, and two-way communications opportunities such as surveys and community meetings.

“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,” Barbara M. Hunter, NSPRA executive director, said in the release. “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.”

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 demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core.