On December 2, 39 Sea Kings were recognized in one of PVHS’s special semi-annual traditions, The Teacher’s Choice Awards.
The Teacher’s Choice Awards are teachers’ tokens of appreciation and recognition that are given to students who put in the work to succeed and thrive in competitive environments.
Each teacher nominates one student who stood out throughout the semester and met these requirements.
At the event, students are recognized for their efforts, receive certificates and are congratulated on their success.
Four teachers–Kristin Lyons, Marie Kuhn, Anna Driver, and Angela Mogilefsky–were also voted by students to receive the Student Choice Awards.
The environment at the Teacher’s Choice Awards is incredibly welcoming.
As soon as someone walks into the room, they are met with immediate smiles and greetings from teachers and students dressed in nice, casual outfits or with a touch of flair.
Be The Change (BTC) and advisor Karen Kostrencich first initiated the program in November 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic to help students feel social, seen and welcomed again.
At this lunch ceremony, students have the opportunity to meet the teacher who nominated them, enjoy catered lunch, such as pizza or deli sandwiches, and take photos with their fellow peers and teachers.
It is important in a school community for all students to feel seen and heard, and this is one of the ways BTC works to bring teachers and students together.
“You put a lot of effort into school, and you spend a lot of time at school, and I think it’s important that you feel like what you’re doing is being noticed,” Kostrencich said.
This event takes place once a semester, and it is always very difficult for teachers to nominate just one student. This makes the students appreciate what this event has to offer.
“I think it’s nice being recognized for doing something that you work so hard for. It’s nice to know that teachers see you and what you’re doing,” said junior Paige McCarthy.
Students are particularly proud of the amount of work they put into something they strive for.
“It is important for young people to be recognized and validated for their own unique gifts and contributions they make,” social science teacher Bryce Stoddart said.
Bringing together the community and celebrating student success is a necessity in such a multitalented school where students grow and learn how to become their future selves.