GDOE Recognition Programs
Greetings 24-25 Excellence Recognitions Coordinators,
I hope you’re enjoying your summer!
Thank you for your dedicated service as an Excellence Recognition Programs Coordinator. Your efforts are greatly appreciated as we work together to honor outstanding educators, schools, staff, and students.
Please find details of each upcoming Excellence Recognition program, including application dates and guidance documents.
U.S. Senate Youth Program: A unique educational experience for outstanding high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in public service.
- Application Dates: August 12 – September 30
- USSYP Student Program Brochure
Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award: This award recognizes and promotes the commitment and excellence exhibited by classified school employees who provide exemplary service to pre-kindergarten through high school students and inspire innovation and excellence among all classified school employees.
- Application Dates: August 15 – September 30
- RISE Nomination Guidance
U.S. Presidential Scholars Program: This program recognizes and honors some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors.
- Application Dates: September 2 – November 1
- USPS Student Program Brochure
Georgia Scholar Program: This Georgia program identifies and honors high school seniors who have achieved excellence in school and community life.
- Application Dates: January 1 – March 1
- The Georgia Scholar Program Brochure will be available in late Fall.
When the applications open, you will receive a separate email with the application link, verification forms, and other application resources. The application and resources will also be accessible on each respective webpage. You may view the 2025 Excellence Recognition Coordinators Guide for more specific program information HERE.
If you have any questions or need ideas on promoting the program within your district or school, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to support you and ensure you have all the resources you need.
If you are not the designated contact person for Excellence Recognition Programs, kindly ensure the appropriate coordinator completes the contact form to join our listserv HERE.
With gratitude,
Arlecia Brooks
Excellence Recognitions Specialist
Office of Communications
Cell Phone: 678.206.8158