New for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Purpose of the Award
The Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Green Dragon Award recognizes a student who exemplifies the spirit and legacy of Maggie Lena Walker and the pillars of the Walker Way through a sustained commitment to service, honor, integrity, and character. The recipient is a student who makes a meaningful difference in the school community, willingly gives time and expertise to support others, and consistently demonstrates leadership through actions rather than recognition.
Award Criteria
The Green Dragon Award recipient should demonstrate the following qualities:
1. Commitment to Service
- Consistently contributes time, energy, and talents to the school community.
- Volunteers willingly for school activities, events, initiatives, and special projects.
- Seeks opportunities to serve others without expecting recognition or reward.
- Demonstrates a genuine desire to make MLWGS a stronger and more inclusive community.
2. Honor
- Represents Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School with pride and respect.
- Demonstrates respect for classmates, teachers, staff, and the broader community.
- Takes responsibility for contributing positively to the reputation and traditions of the school.
- Leads by example and encourages others to uphold high standards.
3. Integrity
- Consistently does what is right, even when no one is watching.
- Demonstrates honesty, accountability, and trustworthiness.
- Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility for decisions and actions.
- Treats others fairly and respectfully.
4. Character
- Demonstrates compassion, empathy, resilience, and respect.
- Builds positive relationships and contributes to a welcoming school culture.
- Supports peers and celebrates the accomplishments of others.
- Responds to challenges with maturity, courage, and a growth mindset.
5. Contributions to the School Community
- Makes meaningful contributions in multiple areas of school life.
- Volunteers time and expertise for special projects, programs, events, or initiatives.
- Uses individual strengths and talents to benefit others.
- Demonstrates a sustained impact rather than a single act of service.
Distinguished Green Dragon Standard
The Green Dragon Award is intended for a student whose everyday choices reflect the values of service, honor, integrity, and character. The recipient should be someone who may not always seek the spotlight but whose presence, leadership, generosity, and commitment make MLWGS a better place.
Evidence of Excellence
Nominations should include specific examples demonstrating the student’s:
- Service to the school and/or broader community
- Leadership and initiative
- Volunteerism and willingness to contribute
- Positive influence on peers and school culture
- Use of talents or expertise to support special projects
- Integrity, responsibility, and dependability
- Compassion, respect, and character
- Sustained commitment and impact
Selection Statement
The Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Green Dragon Award honors a student who carries forward the spirit of Maggie Lena Walker by using their talents, time, and character in service to others. The Green Dragon is not simply a symbol of achievement—it represents a student who leaves a lasting positive mark on the MLWGS community through courage, compassion, integrity, and purposeful action.
Recommended Award Frequency: One recipient quarterly, with the possibility of additional recipients when multiple students demonstrate an exceptional level of distinction.
