Celebrate Your Commitment to the Whole Child

Across New York State, schools work every day to support students beyond a narrow focus on instruction and assessments. Whether your school already embodies the Whole Child approach or is intentionally building toward it, your work matters—and it deserves recognition.

This is your opportunity to lift up the great work happening in your school community. Nominate your school for recognition as a NYSALL Whole Child School, honoring learning environments where students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged.

The NYSALL Whole Child Award

The NYSALL Whole Child Award recognizes schools that go above and beyond to educate the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Honored schools demonstrate success in creating inclusive, student-centered environments where learners are engaged, well supported, and prepared to thrive as lifelong learners.

This award celebrates schools that have intentionally shifted from a narrow academic vision to a more comprehensive approach—one that prioritizes student well-being, belonging, and long-term success.

What It Means to Be a Whole Child School

Rooted in NYSALL’s commitment to Whole Child education, this initiative reframes the conversation about student success. It emphasizes collaboration, coordination, and integration of services and supports to ensure every student is:

• Healthy

• Safe

• Engaged

• Supported

• Challenged

Applicants will describe a feasible, intentional plan that highlights how their school advances these principles through practice, partnerships, and culture.

Learn more about Whole Child education by reviewing the program description, rubric, and application.

📅 Applications are due February 13, 2026.

We invite you to apply—and to proudly share how your school is making the Whole Child a reality for every learner, every day.

Mary Loesing

NYSALL Chair of Whole Child Advocacy

 

Brian Kesel

NYSALL Executive Director