Nominations are collected through the Office of Public Affairs via an SPS All-Star nomination form. A non-biased (removed from school buildings) selection committee determines the top three candidates from each region based on the strength of the nomination letter(s). A list of nominees is then sent to Human Resources for vetting.

Once nominees have been approved for consideration, the selection committee initiates a second round of voting. One winner from each region of the district is selected to ensure equitable recognition across SPS.

Initial Selection Criteria

1. Number of Nominations: Reflects the breadth of support across the SPS community.
2. Diversity of Nominees: Judges will consider the range of nominators—across departments, roles, schools, and communities—to reflect the nominee’s widespread impact and inclusivity.
3. Strength of Nomination Letters: Clear, detailed, and compelling examples of impact and excellence are prioritized.
4. Distinctiveness of Contributions: Highlights unique, innovative, or transformative efforts aligned with SPS values.

Final Evaluation Criteria

To be selected, the winner must score higher than the other finalists in these categories:

• Excellence: Demonstrates performance, innovation, or initiative that positively impacts students, staff, or district operations.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborates effectively and supports colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Reliability & Professionalism: Consistently dependable, respectful, and upholds high standards of professionalism; demonstrates dedication to students, colleagues, and the SPS mission through dependability and a positive attitude.
• School & Community Impact: Demonstrates a positive, lasting impact on students’ well-being, learning, or experience; also contributes to positive culture or staff morale.
• Alignment with SPS Core Values: Promotes inclusive practices and ensures all students feel seen, heard, and supported. Models the SPS core values—Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment—in actions and interactions.

Tie-Breaker: Nominator Weight

When nominees have the same score, recognition priority is based on nominator type: 

1. Highest priority: Student Nomination
2. Second priority: Parent/Guardian Nomination
3. Third priority: Staff/Peer Nomination

Example: Two nominees with 23 points — the one nominated by a student receives priority.