GVSU's shared values provide a foundation and framework that guide the university's authorizing decisions and the GVSU DEISS mission.
To recognize and celebrate GVSU-authorized charter public schools that also reflect these shared values, the GVSU DEISS annually presents a Core Values Award to a school whose program, project, practice, or other initiative best demonstrates advancement of a particular value.
Application Details
The application window for the 2026 Core Values Award is now open! Boards can apply for the award until March 27, 2026. This year's award will celebrate the value of "Inquiry."
Why does GVSU value inquiry? It encourages active questioning and problem-solving to improve lives and strengthen communities. Active scholarship, creative expression, and relevant co-curricular experiences drive learners toward fulfillment, prosperity, and justice.
Apply for 2026 Core Values Award
Eligibility and Requirements
The Core Value Award is open to any GVSU-authorized charter public school. Applications must be submitted by school boards, on behalf of the school.
- Only one submission per school is allowed.
- Academic performance of the school meets or exceeds the authorizing contract goals, based on the last set of statewide testing data.
- Fiscal and compliance performance of the school meets or exceeds standards, as reported in the most recent School Performance Report.
- GVSU reserves the right to rescind any awards granted to an applicant who provided false or fraudulent application information.
- GVSU reserves the exclusive right to interpret information submitted and determine awards without claim for damage or recourse of any kind.
Award Selection and Benefits
Award winners are selected by an independent panel of reviewers that will consider applications and evidence submitted in support for the award category. The award category for 2026 is Inquiry, for school initiatives that encourage active questioning and problem-solving to improve lives and strengthen communities.
Winning the award comes with many benefits, including:
- Award plaque, to be prominently displayed in the school.
- Award recipient information, to be included on the GVSU DEISS website, newsletter, etc.
- Monetary grant of $5,000, which may be used to support student enrichment, professional development, or other purchases to support your school (funds will be added to your next academic grant award).
- Other recognition, at the discretion of the GVSU DEISS.
Previous Winners
Below are winners from past years, with the celebrated core value in parenthesis.
- 2025: Covenant High School Grand Rapids and Michigan Math and Science Academy (International Perspectives)
- 2024: Detroit Achievement Academy and The Greenspire School (Integrity)
- 2023: Covenant Schools Detroit (Inclusive and Equitable Community)
- 2022: The Greenspire School -- (Innovation)
2025 Winner: Covenant High School Grand Rapids