At Mater Dei High School, students are celebrated for more than just their academic achievements or athletic abilities—they are also recognized for embodying the core values of honor, glory, and love. The Monarch Character Award is a special recognition that highlights students who consistently demonstrate positive actions, classroom etiquette, and stellar leadership qualities. This initiative helps foster a sense of community, allowing students to excel academically while contributing to the school’s values in meaningful ways.  

Sophomore Amy Vutran, who was recently honored with the Monarch Character Award, is proud of the recognition she received.

“I was surprised when I first saw the email, but it felt really nice to be recognized,” Vutran said. “It said, ‘Congratulations, you’ve been acknowledged for your classroom etiquette and focus.’ I really appreciated it.”  

The Monarch Character Award is not based solely on academic performance or grades; it reflects positive behavior both in and outside the classroom. Vutran believes a combination of both effort and character led to her recognition.

“I think it’s about both,” Vutran said. “You have to stay focused on your work, but it’s also about having a positive attitude and treating others with respect. It’s about being a good person.”  

Like many of her peers, Vutran wasn’t familiar with the award before receiving it, but after understanding its implications she recognizes the award’s value. She believes that students should focus on their personal growth, letting recognition follow naturally.  

“I had no idea this award even existed before I got it, but I think it’s a great way to appreciate students who consistently do the right thing,” Vutran said. “You don’t have to do anything out of the ordinary—just stay focused and be respectful.”  

Sophomore Camille Cardenas, who also received the Monarch Character Award for her classroom focus and etiquette, shares a similar experience. While grateful for the recognition, she remains humble about her achievements.

“I didn’t do anything extraordinary,” Cardenas said. “I just stayed on task and worked hard.”  

Cardenas explained that consistency in her effort was what made a difference. She then talked about the importance of efficiency and staying on top of tasks.

“I think it’s about staying focused and keeping up with the work,” Cardenas said. “I didn’t try to stand out—I just did what I needed to do.”  

For students like Vutran and Cardenas, the Monarch Character Award is a way to be acknowledged for the small yet significant actions they take every day. But for some, the true value of the award lies in being recognized for their character, not just their academics.

“I really appreciate that it’s not just about grades,” Cardenas said. “It’s about being a good person, showing respect to others, and staying consistent in your efforts.”  

Kendra Hart, Assistant Principal of Catholic Identity and Formation and Religious Studies Department Chair, explained that the Monarch Character Award is part of a broader effort to promote the school’s core values. Hart was one of the first faculty members in a student connection meeting to bring up the concept of the award, where the goal is to bring more exciting ways to engage students in good deeds or activities.

“We want to recognize students who demonstrate honor, glory, and love in their daily lives,” Hart said. “Whether it’s leading a prayer, helping a classmate, or showing consistent focus in class, we want to acknowledge that.”  

The award system uses the Five Star App, in which teachers can recognize students for positive behavior. The acknowledgment is typically followed by a note explaining why the student was chosen.

“Teachers can mark students for actions like leading a class in prayer, helping others, or just being consistently focused and engaged,” Hart said.  

The rewards that follow the recognition also add an extra layer of motivation for students. Those who receive Monarch Character Awards can earn prizes such as cookie passes, student store credit, and entries into raffles for additional incentives.

 “It’s nice to be recognized for your character, and getting rewards like a cookie pass is a fun bonus,” Vutran said.  

For both students, the Monarch Character Award has been a reminder of the importance of doing the right thing, whether it’s staying on task in the classroom or offering help to others.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about doing your best and showing respect,” Cardenas said. “That’s what really matters.”  

The Monarch Character Award program continues to inspire students at Mater Dei to stay grounded in their values, reinforcing the idea that recognition for positive behavior isn’t just about a reward—it’s about creating a stronger, more supportive school community.