On April 2,  staff members will honor a chosen student with a bronze medallion, photograph and certificate stating why they were chosen to participate in the annual Renaissance Choice Awards.

Many staff members recognize the importance of this event and are sure to participate every year, such as science teacher Todd Decker.

“It’s important to recognize those students who work hard in ways that may not be reflected in academics,” he said.

Other teachers do not find the awards necessary and do not make it a priority to participate every year, such as math teacher Sean O’Connor, who stated that it is difficult for him to select a student due to the fact that his classes are only a semester long as opposed to those who have the same students all year.

“I’ve done Choice Awards in past, it depends on if there’s that one person that stands out. I’m not going to pick someone just to pick,” he said.

James Waeckerle and Sandy Shilling-Gal, two teachers who are in charge of this event, were able to answer questions about each aspect and what to expect at the 2014 Renaissance Choice Awards.

1) When and why did the Renaissance Choice Awards start?

“It has been a part of the Lafayette Renaissance program for 20 years or more. We do not know the exact year they began. The Choice Awards were created to give staff an opportunity to recognize students who may not otherwise receive recognition during their time at Lafayette High School. The criteria determined by each staff member may include achievement, citizenship, school spirit, attendance, or any other criterion deemed important by the presenting staff member.”

2) Why do you think that it is important to participate in the Renaissance Choice Awards?

“We believe it is extremely important to recognize diverse contributions to the school environment. Some students are recognized that may have not been recognized for any other reason during their school career.”

3) Do most teachers participate?

“Annually approximately 115 staff members participate.”

4) How would you describe the event?

“Each nominating staff member presents his or her honoree with a bronze medallion with a black/gold ribbon featuring the LHS Renaissance logo and a complimentary 5×7 photograph with the nominating staff member. This year students will also be receiving a certificate with the reason why they were chosen. Parents and students are invited to a breakfast held prior to the presentation of awards.”

Shilling-Gal and Waeckerle both give out Choice Awards of their own and cite good grades, perfect attendance and overcoming personal obstacles as some reasons to make certain students their Choice.