Spirit of Community Awards

Recognizing students work

Perhaps now more than ever we need to recognize and celebrate the work of our students. I’m happy to share this opportunity provided by Prudential that invites teachers/schools to highlight the work of young people.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards is launching its 26th annual search for exemplary young volunteers. Once again, the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) is proud to support this unique youth recognition program–-especially in a year when so many students have had to go above and beyond to continue their volunteer service. I hope you’ll encourage your school to take advantage of the opportunities that it provides.

Sponsored by Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the awards program has honored more than 140,000 middle level and high school volunteers since 1995, and has provided schools nationwide with an excellent opportunity to promote volunteerism. This is how the program works:

• The process begins at the school level. Students fill out applications online and submit them to their principals. Then, schools select their top youth volunteers, present them with certificates, and recognize them as role models. Qualifying top applicants also receive President’s Volunteer Service Awards.
• A state-level judging panel selects the top middle level and high school candidate in each state and the District of Columbia.
• These State Honorees earn $1,000 scholarships, beautifully engraved silver medallions and an invitation to the program’s national recognition events. Hundreds of other state-level honorees receive bronze medallions or special certificates. 

One of the distinguishing characteristics of this program is the recognition it provides for middle level students. Every year, half of its 102 State Honoree scholarships, and five of its 10 national scholarships, are granted to students in grades 5 through 8. These scholarships provide middle level educators with a chance to celebrate and encourage civic responsibility by our students. 

All middle level and high school principals have been sent a packet with complete details on the 2021 program, and additional packets are available by calling 888-651-2951. Details are also available at spirit.prudential.com. The student application deadline this year is November 10, and the deadline for schools to certify applications for state-level judging is November 20. 

This program presents a great opportunity to publicize the wonderful things that kids are doing and the role that schools play in promoting community involvement. I hope you’ll encourage your school to participate.