Oakland Intermediate Schools was recognized with three national honors as part of the 46th Annual Telly Awards.

They were honored for their outstanding work in public communication, video storytelling, and strategic marketing.

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens recognizing local, regional and cable television commercials, along with non-broadcast video and television programming.

It earned a Silver Telly Award in the “Campaign—Public Service and PSA” category for “In Class is Where It’s At!”, a regional television campaign aimed at combating chronic absenteeism.

The campaign was developed in partnership with Macomb and Wayne County intermediate school districts to emphasize the importance of consistent school attendance.

It received a Bronze Telly Award in the “General—Government Relations” category for its Michigan Meals Program video.

The piece was created to promote equitable access to school nutrition across Michigan and highlight innovative breakfast service models.

It was also recognized by the National School Public Relations Association with a Golden Achievement Award for the “I’m OSTC Proud. Are You?” marketing campaign.

“We’re honored to receive a Silver Telly Award for In Class is Where It’s At, a campaign that reflects the power of collaboration and purpose-driven storytelling,” said Mark Edwards, communications specialist at Oakland Schools. “More importantly, this recognition helps shed light on the nationwide chronic absenteeism crisis. This campaign aims to elevate awareness, spark conversation, and inspire action to get students back in class where learning and connection happen daily.”

“These awards reflect the power of strategic communication to support and strengthen public education,” said Sheri Stuart Collins, director of communication services at Oakland Schools. “Whether we’re tackling chronic absenteeism, advancing equitable access to school nutrition, or showcasing the value of career and technical education, each campaign represents our deep commitment to uplifting student voices, engaging our communities, and making a lasting impact across the region.”