With a few changes due to COVID-19 protocols in place, the first Sacred Heart awards of the 2020-21 school year were given to seven Woodlands Academy students and one faculty member Oct. 7 in recognition of living the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria in a most visible way. Goal Three, “Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a social awareness that impels to action,” was chosen by the Woodlands Academy student government as the basis for these awards.

Those recognized on Oct. 7 for their efforts in living out this goal were: freshmen Hailey Ross and Greer Talty, sophomores Karla Tapia and Magdelene Roemer, juniors Lani English and Gretchen Steele, senior Gabriella Flores, and science teacher Kristen Black.

Despite the differences in how this recognition was bestowed, the criteria remained the same. Sacred Heart Awards are given based on a vote of the students, ratified by the advisors in recognition of good conduct, good spirit, helpful influence and leadership. They serve to remind the entire Woodlands Academy community of the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria.

The Woodlands Academy tradition of Sacred Heart Awards traces its roots to an older Sacred Heart tradition called Primes where medals were given for politeness, order, and excellence in various academic subjects. Several years ago, Woodlands brought back the tradition of awarding ribbons to which St. Rose Philippine Duchesne medals are attached.