Mira Costa Parent Teacher Student Association holds Student Recognition Awards Ceremony

By Andrew Costley

Staff Writer

The Mira Costa Parent Teacher Student Association held its second Student Recognition Awards Ceremony on February 10 in the small theatre to reward students for achievements in areas outside of academics, such as citizenship and leadership.

According to the PTSA President, the idea behind this program is that while there are plenty of awards for academic excellence, there are few awards recognizing engaged and well-mannered students whose GPAs may not show their true character. The PTSA has been holding this ceremony three times a year since 1986, with one in November, February, and May.

“The awards seek to recognize traits beyond exemplary academic work, although that can certainly be rewarded if the teacher chooses,” President of the PTSA Sandi Gleason said.

The award is the combination of a congratulatory certificate and usually a $10 gift card to common business or company, such as Coffee Bean. These gift cards are all funded by the PTSA, which has set aside around $1000 dollars every school year for their purchase. Each  award is given out at a ceremony that takes place around lunch in the small theatre. Parents are welcome to come and watch a Principal Ben Dale say a few words about each of the nominated students before their certificates and gift cards are handed out.

“These awards are subjective based on the teachers’ perspective.” Gleason also said. “The idea is to allow teachers to recognize students based on character, not just high academic grades.”

To nominate students, all teachers have to do is fill out a form with their name, the student’s name, and the reason why the student is being nominated. These nominations are not reviewed, and they are only turned down if the PTSA exceeds its $1000 budget. Gleason addressed that this was due to the fact that unlike academic achievements, those outside the classroom may not see the full character of a student in an environment like a teacher can.

“Receiving the individualized recognition from my teacher really validated my achievements” said junior Hira Shah, “and boosted my morale for the rest of the year”.

Around 30 students receive an award each ceremony, with 28 receiving one this February. The awards continue as a Mira Costa tradition, helping students feel appreciated for their non-academic achievements and success in their high school careers.

“I really like that the PTSA can sponsor these awards to recognize students who exemplify Mira Costa’s high standards of excellence,” said the ceremony PTSA organizer, Sandi Nerad. “Whether it’s hard work, overcoming obstacles, helping others, and/or being a positive role model – these are students who are making an impact in their classes and on their teachers.”