Every Student Succeeding Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Association of California School Administrators

Overview

Each year, ACSA recognizes students across California who have overcome significant obstacles to achieve academic and personal success. The program honors 19 pre-K through adult education students—one selected from each geographic region—and additionally recognizes two California adult education students. ACSA highlights the role of dedicated educators who support these students and underscores the organization’s commitment to equal opportunities for every student. These stories are used to inspire educators and communities and to reinforce the goal of student-centered success.

Description: An annual recognition program that celebrates students who exceed expectations by overcoming barriers with the support of school leaders and educators.

• Annual statewide recognition for students and educators
• Regional representation across California
• Focus on overcoming barriers and inspiring others

Purpose and Eligibility

The award is intended to honor students at all grade levels—pre-K through adult education—who have succeeded against the odds or who have made notable progress that inspires administrators and educators. One student from each region is selected to receive recognition. Nominees should demonstrate measurable effort, resilience, and a positive trajectory in attendance, attitude, academics, or behavior. The selection highlights both individual achievement and the effective support provided by educational staff.

Purpose: To recognize students who have achieved success beyond expectations and to honor the educators who helped them.

Eligibility: Nominees should have made a special effort to succeed and overcome significant obstacles. Examples of obstacles include:

• Overcoming physical or mental barriers
• Returning to school after interruption
• Leaving a gang or at-risk situation
• Improving attendance or classroom behavior
• Demonstrating a significant change in attitude toward learning

They should also be active in:

• After-school programs
• Community service
• Student conflict resolution and peer mediation
• Cross-age or peer tutoring

• Recognizes resilience, effort, and measurable improvement
• Selection considers both student achievement and educator support
• Eligibility emphasizes demonstrated change and sustained involvement

Eligible Programs

Nominees may come from a variety of instructional programs and services that support students facing challenges. The award accommodates students enrolled in alternative or nontraditional settings as well as programs focused on language, credit recovery, or at-risk populations. By including diverse program types, the recognition aims to reflect the wide range of contexts in which students succeed with targeted support. Program participation often illustrates how tailored interventions contribute to student progress.

Nominee programs:

• Alternative education
• At-risk programs
• Bilingual programs
• Continuation schools

• Inclusive of traditional and nontraditional instructional settings
• Highlights success across varied program models
• Encourages recognition of effective support strategies