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Dolores Gard Outstanding School Volunteer Award

Purpose:

The Dolores Gard Outstanding School Volunteer Award is presented annually to a volunteer who demonstrates exceptional dedication and commitment to students and staff within Valdez City Schools. This award recognizes the individual who fosters strong school-community relationships, promotes innovative approaches to improving student and staff performance, and goes above and beyond to make VCS a model school district.

Award Criteria

Award winners are selected based on four key components: the character of the volunteer, the type and breadth of their volunteer service, and the measurable impact of their contributions to student success and school improvement.

Nomination Criteria

  1. Type of Volunteer Contribution (25%)
    • What was the nature of the volunteer's service?
    • Description of the services and activities performed by the nominee.
    • Demonstrates the specific need or impact of those services on the school community.
  2. Character of Volunteer Service (25%)
    • How creative, unique, or innovative was the nominee’s service? 
    • Evaluation of the quality and distinctiveness of the volunteer's contributions.
    • Consideration of the obstacles faced and overcome, the effort involved, and any accomplishments achieved.
  3. Breadth of Volunteer Contribution (25%)
    • How extensive is the volunteer’s service?
    • Number of years of service to the school or district.
    • Average number of hours volunteered per week.
    • The number of students impacted, either directly or indirectly, by the nominee's efforts.
  4. Impact of Volunteer Service (25%)
    • What measurable outcomes resulted from the nominee’s volunteer work?
    • Direct or indirect impact on student achievement.
    • Contribution to school improvement, including factors such as school climate, student behavior, attendance, etc

Eligibility Requirements

  • Commitment to Student Learning: The nominee must have a proven track record of exceptional commitment to student success.  
  • Character Traits: The nominee must exemplify a “kid-centered” attitude, including being kind, trustworthy, helpful, disciplined, efficient, joyful, frugal, policy-driven, and spunky.
  • Volunteer Service in the School Environment: Volunteer work must be performed within the school environment.

Timeline:

  • January 31: Nominations due from School Principals, PTA, VAFT, and the community.
  • February: The selection committee meets to review nominations and select the awardee. The award will be presented during the Elk Tournament
 

Nomination Resources

Award Recipients