Board of Education introduces the WCSD Upstander Award

Washingtonville Central School District is launching a new student-focused award to recognize students whose service, leadership and kindness are making a difference in their schools and the wider community.

The WCSD Upstander Award, created by the Board of Education, will honor students who take an active role in supporting others or contributing to a cause, project or community effort.

“Every day, young people give their time, talents, compassion and leadership to make a real difference, often without being noticed,” Board of Education President Sharon Williams said. “We want to recognize that our students are more than just members of our schools; they are active, valuable members of the wider community.”

Students may be nominated for efforts benefiting their school, the district or the broader community. Those contributions could include volunteering, leadership, advocacy, acts of kindness or participation in projects and programs that help others.

“This recognition highlights the good work WCSD students do, builds a stronger bond between the District and the community and lets young people know their efforts are noticed and appreciated,” Ms. Williams said.

Nominations may be submitted by individuals who have directly observed a student’s service or involvement, including teachers, school staff, coaches, employers, community and nonprofit organizations, first responders, business owners and neighbors. Nominations from family members will not be accepted.

Nominations will be accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed at the end of each marking period. A committee will select up to three students for recognition during the following marking period, with selections based on the quality, consistency and impact of each student’s contributions rather than the number of nominations received.

“At the end of the day, the Upstander Award shows the Board’s belief that when young people give back to their school and community, the community should recognize and celebrate them,” Ms. Williams said.

The WCSD Upstander Award is one of three community awards presented by the Board of Education. The Board also presents the monthly Making a Difference Award, recognizing WCSD staff, and the annual BOE Award for Accomplishment. More information about all three awards, including how to submit a nomination, is available on the District’s Community Awards page.