Assistant principal Greg Stanfield is introducing two new programs to students and staff here at Torrington High School. “There are basically two programs: The Trailblazer Card, and Above and Beyond,” said Stanfield.

The Trailblazer Card is a card that teachers will hand out to students for doing something good. The student puts his or her name on the card and puts it into a box in the office. “Every Friday we’ll draw a name out of the box for a prize. Some of the prizes I’ve got right now include certificates to Pizza Hut, Pamida, and The Java Jar. Every Monday, we’ll clean the box out and start fresh again,” said Stanfield.

“I think it’s a really positive thing,” said teacher Harvey Knaub. “Awarding students for doing things like picking up trash around the school or opening a door for someone shows that we value more than just academics.”

The second program, Above and Beyond, awards students who have been recognized for something in the community.

“Say you’re athlete of the week or you won an award in speech or band, you should be recognized for that,” said Stanfield. “I think sometimes the good things students do in this school get lost. This is just a way to award students who don’t always get recognition for their hard work.”

Above and Beyond winners will receive a certificate and a coupon for a personal pizza from Bucks.

“It’s a good idea. It encourages students to get out and participate with each other,” said senior Kristin Foos.

“Other schools I’ve been at have done this,” said Stanfield. “I ran it by Mr. Wood, and he thought it was a great idea.” Stanfield added that he wasn’t alone in his student recognition doings. “The Booster Club and the businesses in the community have helped me out a lot.”