Board of Education Awards
The Washingtonville Central School District Board of Education proudly recognizes the people who make our schools and community stronger — the staff who go above and beyond, the students who step up for others, and the members of our community whose accomplishments bring distinction to the District. Learn about each award below and submit a nomination for someone who deserves to be celebrated.
Making a Difference Award
There are so many examples of individual teachers, aides, drivers, safety personnel, and other District staff who are making a difference in the lives of our students throughout our buildings. This award recognizes those special individuals and the exemplary service they provide to others.
- Who is honoredAny WCSD staff member
- Who can nominateAnyone in the WCSD community — parents, students, staff, business owners, first responders, law enforcement, and more
- When to nominateRolling basis — nominations received by the 5th of each month are reviewed that month
- SelectionUp to five (5) nominees are chosen each month
- RecognitionHonored at an event or activity the following month; awards are distributed October through April
WCSD Upstander Award
An Upstander is a person who speaks out, takes action, or intervenes to support someone or a cause rather than remaining a passive bystander. Our community is filled with students who quietly and consistently make a difference through service, leadership, kindness, and volunteerism. The Upstander Award honors students whose actions positively impact others and help strengthen our schools, neighborhoods, and community organizations.
Eligible students have demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact by creating or actively participating in a project, program, or community effort that benefits their school building, the District, and/or the broader community. This award is not a popularity contest — it recognizes the quality, consistency, and impact of a student’s contributions rather than the number of nominations received.
- Who is honoredWCSD students
- Who can nominateTeachers, school staff, coaches, employers, community and nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, first responders, law enforcement, business owners, neighbors, or other community members who have directly observed the student’s service. Nominations from parents, guardians, siblings, or other family members are not accepted.
- When to nominateRolling basis — a committee reviews all submissions at the end of each marking period
- SelectionUp to three (3) students per marking period
- RecognitionCelebrated at a District event or activity during the following marking period
BOE Award for Accomplishment
Presented once a year, the Board of Education Award for Accomplishment celebrates members of the WCSD community whose outstanding achievements bring pride and distinction to the District. Recipients are honored in person at a Board of Education meeting and presented with a commemorative plaque.
- Who is honoredMembers of the WCSD community with a noteworthy accomplishment
- Who can nominateAnyone in the WCSD community
- When to nominateOnce a year — 2027 nominations are open April 6 through May 1, 2027
- SelectionReviewed by the Board of Education following the close of nominations
- RecognitionHonored at a Board of Education meeting each spring with a plaque
Nominations for the 2026 award are accepted April 6 – May 1, 2027.