Every achievement, whether big or small, deserves recognition—especially when it brings honor to the school. Special Recognition is awarded to learners who have demonstrated excellence by representing their school in academic, athletic, and artistic competitions at the district, division, regional, national, or international levels.
This recognition not only celebrates student success but also inspires others to strive for excellence. By publicly affirming these achievements, schools cultivate a culture of hard work, dedication, and national pride among students.
Click here to read DepEd Order No. 036, Series 2016.
Who Qualifies for Special Recognition? 🏆
Learners who have:
✔ Competed in academic, athletic, or artistic competitions at the district, division, regional, national, or international levels.
✔ Won awards, medals, trophies, or plaques in DepEd-recognized competitions.
✔ Showcased outstanding performance in official school representations.
✔ Brought honor and prestige to the school through their achievements.
This recognition is given regardless of the student’s grade level, ensuring that all learners who excel get the acknowledgment they deserve.
How Is Special Recognition Given? 🎖
Recognition ceremonies are special moments where students feel valued for their contributions. Schools publicly honor awardees through:
✅ Flag Ceremonies – A weekly or monthly announcement of students who have brought honor to the school.
✅ School-Awarding Ceremonies – A formal event where students receive certificates, medals, trophies, or plaques.
✅ DepEd-Recognized Events – Featuring student achievements in school newsletters, bulletin boards, or social media pages.
The actual awards (certificates, medals, trophies, plaques) earned by students from various competitions serve as proof of their excellence and are used in school ceremonies to highlight their success.
Regulating External Awards from Sponsors & Donors 🤝
At times, sponsors, partners, and donors may wish to give additional awards to outstanding students. To ensure fairness and alignment with the school’s values, these awards must:
✔ Follow DepEd’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values.
✔ Be named after a trait, value, or achievement being recognized (e.g., "Excellence in Science Award").
✔ Be named after an esteemed, deceased person who embodies the values of the award.
✔ Comply with policy guidelines set by the school.
This ensures that all recognitions remain meaningful, ethical, and inspiring for students.
Why Special Recognition Matters 🌟
🔹 Motivates students to strive for excellence in competitions and school representations.
🔹 Builds school pride by showcasing student achievements.
🔹 Encourages others to participate in contests and extracurricular activities.
🔹 Strengthens community support by involving sponsors and donors.
🔹 Reinforces the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
By honoring students through Special Recognition, schools create an environment of encouragement where learners feel appreciated and inspired to achieve even greater heights.
Final Thoughts: Celebrating Excellence Beyond the Classroom 🎉
Success goes beyond the four walls of a classroom—it is found in the effort, talent, and perseverance of students who proudly represent their school. Special Recognition ensures that their achievements are not only celebrated but also serve as inspiration for future generations.
Through this initiative, we encourage students to dream big, work hard, and make their school proud—because every achievement, no matter how big or small, deserves to be recognized! 🚀👏