Strategic Campaign
Be a Hicksville Superhero
2021 New York School Public Relations Association, Award of Excellence, Strategic Campaign
In the summer of 2020, Hicksville Public Schools hosted more than 20 virtual parent forums to address concerns about reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic. Families shared questions and feedback that underscored the need for clarity, reassurance, and trust in returning to in person learning. In response, the district launched the “Be a Hicksville Superhero” campaign, designed to reduce anxiety and promote safe behaviors in a positive and student friendly way. The campaign featured custom superhero characters, posters displayed across all nine schools, website banners, and a daily social media and email series leading up to the first day of school. Messaging focused on masking, distancing, hygiene, and personal responsibility in a hopeful, kid friendly style that empowered students and families to feel confident about returning. Principals integrated the theme into first day activities, social media engagement rose significantly during the campaign, and several schools requested additional poster runs. The initiative successfully eased reopening anxiety and created a unifying message that was embraced districtwide.

