Young Achievers Award

Purpose: Recognition program created by the International Leadership Network to honor students who exhibit dedication for learning and involvement in their community.

Geographic Scope: Loudon County and Lenoir City School Systems, Tennessee

Eligibility:

• Students in grades 1-8
• Nominated by homeroom teachers based on criteria in the application
• Must demonstrate dedication for learning and community involvement

Selection Process:

1. One student nominated from each homeroom by teacher (becomes Classroom Winner)
2. Parents complete biographical application
3. Committee of 4 board members and executive director read applications
4. Five students selected from each grade-level group:
   • Grades 1-2
   • Grades 3-4
   • Grades 5-6
   • Grades 7-8
   • Total: 20 Grade-level Winners
5. Grade-level Winners interview with YA committee
6. One Finalist selected from each grade-level (4 finalists total)
7. Finalists announced at Excellence in Education Celebration
8. Finalist names submitted to International Leadership Network to compete with finalists from other states and countries

Recognition:

• All 210 students annually recognized for achievements
• Finalists recognized at Excellence in Education Celebration event (attended by over 1,200 students, teachers, parents, and community members)
• Each student called on stage to be recognized by community leaders

Key Information:

• Foundation pays annual fee of $400 to participate in the International Leadership Network program

How to Apply

1. Homeroom teachers nominate one student based on criteria outlined in the application
2. Parents receive biographical application to complete
3. Both documents returned to the Foundation by requested deadline
4. Selected Classroom Winners are invited to interview with YA committee
5. Finalists announced at Excellence in Education Celebration event