The Office of the Secretary of the State annually sponsors The Excellence in Citizenship Awards for eighth grade and twelfth grade students to recognize outstanding young people throughout Connecticut who are active participants in their community and their school.

Civic participation is a critical element in the vibrancy and health of our democracy, and students who devote time and energy to these pursuits are worthy of recognition for their efforts. Citizenship awards provide encouragement for students to continue these endeavors throughout their school years and beyond. All Connecticut schools are invited to participate.

Through the Student Citizenship Award program, one eighth grade student and one twelfth grade student from each participating school is recognized for active participation in civic community activities, good scholarship and school involvement. This year we will be selecting one High School Senior per congressional district from the nominations we receive to be awarded a savings bond.

CRITERIA. This award recognizes one eighth grade and twelfth grade student from each participating Connecticut school who demonstrates the qualities of active participation in civic or community activities, good scholarship and school involvement. The following specific criteria apply:

1. Volunteer Service to the community (i.e. service to health care facilities, senior citizen groups, shelters, day care centers).

 

2. Involvement in citizenship or character building organizations (i.e. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Religious Groups).

 

3. Good scholastic record.

 

4. Participation in student government programs or activities.

 

5. Faithful school attendance.

 

6. Leadership ability to motivate others to actions to benefit the community.

SELECTION. The Office of Secretary of the State requests that each school select its own award recipient, using the criteria outlined above. We recommend that students be invited to participate in the selection process, along with faculty members, in the hope that their involvement will foster an awareness of the importance of citizenship qualities among their peers.

If you are interested in having the Secretary of the State or a representative of the Secretary of the State's Office present this award at a school assembly or graduation ceremony, indicate this on the selection form. Other awards will be mailed to the school prior to your school assembly or graduation.