Recognition is an essential part of student growth and motivation. To celebrate the hard work, dedication, and achievements of learners, the Grade-Level Awards are given at the end of the school year. These awards recognize students who excel academically, show strong leadership, demonstrate exceptional talents in various disciplines, and contribute meaningfully to their school and community.
At every grade level, awardees are carefully selected by the Awards Committee (AC) based on specific criteria. Let’s explore the different categories of Grade-Level Awards and how they help shape well-rounded individuals.
Click here to read DepEd Order No. 36, Series 2016.
1. Academic Excellence Award 🏅
The Academic Excellence Award is given to learners from Grades 1 to 12 who have achieved a General Average of at least 90 and passed all learning areas.
✔ Class advisers submit the list of qualified students to the Awards Committee (AC).
✔ The General Average is recorded as a whole number, following DepEd Order No. 8, s. 2015.
✔ The award is presented during a school ceremony.
Academic Excellence Award Levels
| Award Title | General Average |
|---|---|
| 🏆 With Highest Honors (May Pinakamataas na Karangalan) | 98 – 100 |
| 🥇 With High Honors (May Mataas na Karangalan) | 95 – 97 |
| 🥈 With Honors (May Karangalan) | 90 – 94 |
This award recognizes students who consistently perform at the highest academic level throughout the school year.
2. Leadership Award 🌟
Leadership is about inspiring others, organizing projects, and making a positive impact on the school and community. This award is given to outstanding student leaders in Grades 6, 10, and 12 who have demonstrated exemplary leadership skills.
Eligibility Criteria:
✔ No failing grades in any learning area.
✔ No record of major disciplinary offenses.
✔ Must be a class officer or an active member/officer of a recognized school club, team, or organization.
✔ Must achieve at least 90% in the Leadership Award evaluation criteria.
Leadership Evaluation Criteria
| Criteria | Advisers (60%) | Peers (40%) |
|---|---|---|
| Motivational Skills (communication, responsibility, teamwork) | 24% | 16% |
| Planning & Organizational Skills (project planning, execution, monitoring) | 24% | 16% |
| Contribution to School & Community | 12% | 8% |
| Total Weight | 60% | 40% |
This award highlights students who lead with integrity, initiative, and dedication.
3. Award for Outstanding Performance in Specific Disciplines 🎭📚🏆
This award is given to learners in Grades 6, 10, and 12 who have excelled in specific disciplines, demonstrating remarkable talent and skills that benefit their school and community.
Disciplines Recognized:
✔ Athletics – For outstanding skills in sports, participation in competitions, and sportsmanship.
✔ Arts – For exceptional creativity and craftsmanship in visual arts, media, music, or performing arts.
✔ Communication Arts – For excellence in written or oral communication in Filipino, English, or foreign languages.
✔ Science – For strong academic standing in Science and an inquisitive approach to problem-solving.
✔ Mathematics – For high academic performance and enthusiasm for Mathematics.
✔ Social Sciences – For contributions to history, geography, and community engagement.
✔ Technical-Vocational Education (Tech-Voc) – For exceptional performance in Tech-Voc subjects and their application in real-world projects.
Criteria for Outstanding Performance Awards
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Academic Rating (Final Grade in Subject) | 20% |
| Skill in the Discipline (Output, Competitions, Membership in Teams/Clubs) | 40% |
| Attitude toward the Discipline (Peer & Adviser Evaluation) | 20% |
| Contribution to School & Community (Projects, Volunteer Work, Coaching) | 20% |
Students must achieve at least 90% in these criteria to receive the award.
4. Award for Work Immersion (Senior High School Only) 🏢
For Grade 12 learners, this award honors those who have shown outstanding performance during their Work Immersion program.
✔ Students must have an outstanding academic rating (90% or higher) in the Work Immersion subject.
✔ The evaluation is based on feedback from their direct supervisor and subject teacher.
✔ Recognizes diligence, professionalism, and excellence in real-world job settings.
5. Award for Research or Innovation (Senior High School Only) 🔬💡
This award is given to Grade 12 students who have led the planning and execution of a research project or innovation that contributes to the school or community.
Criteria for Research Award
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Research Grade | 20% |
| Usefulness & Significance | 35% |
| Rigor (Sound Methodology & Data Analysis) | 30% |
| Presentation & Defense | 15% |
Criteria for Innovation Award
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Originality & Novelty | 15% |
| Relevance & Usefulness to the Community | 25% |
| Cost-Effectiveness & Efficiency | 20% |
| Environmental Safety | 10% |
| Presentation & Acceptability | 15% |
| Research Basis | 15% |
Students must achieve at least 90% in these criteria to qualify.
6. Award for Club or Organization Achievement 🎭🤝
This award is given to a school club or organization that has positively impacted the school or community through projects, activities, and teamwork.
Evaluation Criteria:
✔ Performance (50%) – Planning, executing, and managing club activities.
✔ Exemplary Output (30%) – Producing meaningful contributions related to the club’s purpose.
✔ Contribution to School/Community (20%) – Benefiting a wider population through service and advocacy.
Only clubs that meet at least 90% of the criteria will be recognized.
Final Thoughts: Celebrating Excellence and Leadership 🎉
The Grade-Level Awards in the K to 12 Basic Education Program serve as a powerful motivation for students to strive for excellence in academics, leadership, and co-curricular activities. These awards inspire learners to be well-rounded individuals, preparing them for future success.
By recognizing hard work, dedication, and contributions to the school and community, we help shape future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Let’s continue to celebrate student achievements and encourage them to reach greater heights! 🚀👏