Alyssa Richard, at right, was named “PTSA Quality Student of the Week” at Bob Jones High School. Physical science teacher Lois Stratton, at left, nominated Richard. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – The first recipient for the 2015-2016 school year, Alyssa Richard was honored as “PTSA Quality Student of the Week” at Bob Jones High School.

This recognition gives “a chance for us to recognize and celebrate the positive behavior and character traits of individuals,” Bob Jones Assistant Principal Amy Thaxton said. To select candidates, administrators ask a different department to nominate a student each week.

“We send the following suggestions to the teachers as they reflect on a student to nominate: unrecognized or unsung talent; positive role model; servant leadership in school or community and exceptionally polite and helpful to others,” Thaxton said. Teachers also can consider other behavior criteria when deciding on nominations.

Bob Jones PTSA handles arrangements for securing coupons and gift certificates from community partners, Thaxton said.

Richard, a 15-year-old sophomore, was very excited and surprised when she learned about her honor, “considering how many amazing students that are at Bob Jones,” she said.

At Bob Jones, Richard participates in Junior ROTC and is trying out for the softball team. She works actively on mission projects at her church and volunteers in the soup kitchen at the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville.

“I like to sing and dance, play softball, read and hang out with my family,” Richard said about her time away from school obligations.

Lois Stratton, Richard’s physical science teacher, nominated her. “Alyssa is curious, always focused on what we’re doing and asks really good questions when she doesn’t understand something,” Stratton said.

“Alyssa is always pleasant, agreeable and works really well with others. (She has a) great work ethic and keeps it even when it gets tough,” Stratton said.

Richard received gift cards from Bruegger’s, Sam and Greg’s Pizzeria and Hot Dogin.