School District Boasts on Billboards

Under a newly forged relationship with Clear Channel Outdoor, the has begun communicating its accomplishments and delivering other messages to thousands of motorists via two electronic billboards.

The advertising company is providing the high-profile space free of charge as part of its public service efforts.

Superintendent of Schools David Baugh said he is "extremely pleased" with the new working relationship.

"It allows us to celebrate the many achievements of our excellent students and teachers while not spending a penny of the taxpayers' money," he said. "It is good for the schools and good for the community."

Barbara Bridge, vice president of public affairs for the Philadelphia division of Clear Channel Outdoor, said the program is part of the company's commitment to give back to the Philadelphia-area community.

"Clear Channel likes to be good corporate neighbors and whenever we have the opportunity and availabilities we are happy to share them with the community," she said.

"Nothing is more important than the education of our children, and if Clear Channel can help the Bensalem School District celebrate accomplishments of students, teachers and schools, we are happy to do it," she added. The two electronic billboards are located on the east side of Route 1, south of the Pennsylvania Turnpike entrance, and on the east side of I-95 just north of the Street Road exit.

The district's first message began as part of the rotation on the Route 1 billboard. It tells the public about the district's success in the 2010-2011 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment student testing. It reads: "Bensalem School District Is Proud Of its Students! All 9 Schools Recognized by State for Educational Excellence."

Clear Channel Outdoor is one of the world's largest outdoor advertising companies with close to a million displays in more than 40 countries.