How are the awards determined?
Current Pine Tree students make nominations in the form of an essay sharing how a teacher or school employee has influenced their life and why they appreciate and admire them. This is an opportunity for students to express themselves in writing, and to say “thank you” to a special person for making a difference in their lives.

Who may be nominated?

Students are encouraged to write about any district employee (ex: teacher, librarian, coach, principal, cafeteria employee, bus driver, custodian) on their campus. All entries received at the PTEF office by the deadline are judged by a qualified panel of judges, based on a specific criteria.

When is the deadline for turning in essays?

Teachers may schedule writing essays as time permits. The deadline for this contest is February 15, 2021.

Selection of Winners:

No doubt, it is an incredibly difficult task to pick only a few winners from among so many outstanding employees. However, after receiving the essays from the campuses, a Foundation committee is assigned to read the tributes and select winning essays. These employees and the student essay writers will be honored at the PT Honors Annual Banquet. One of the honorees will be selected to receive the prestigious Regen Stiles Teaching Excellence Award.

Criteria for judging was based on:

Compelling nature of teacher's or staff members inspiring qualities, sincerity of student's appreciation, and the quality of expression and writing.

When and how will the nominees be honored?

The nominated persons and the students writing the winning essays are recognized at the PT Honors Award Dinner.

Highlights from each winning essay will be used. Photographs of the student and honoree are used in various publications and on the campus of the honorees. Each of the student authors of the winning essays and the teacher or staff member will receive a a special award acknowledging their achievement.

Beacon Awards

2024 Beacon Award Winners

Regen Stiles Teaching Excellence Award Sponsored by:

How are the Beacon Awards Determined?