Respectful and thoughtful children are once again being celebrated through Terrific Kids Assemblies following a three-year hiatus.
The Kiwanis Club of Sarnia-Lambton Golden K is involved in various programs at local elementary schools, including the Builders' Club (specifically for students in Grades 7 and 8) and Terrific Kids.
Coordinator Murray Bouchette said the Terrific Kids program encourages good behavior and promotes positive character traits.
As specified on the Kiwanis' website, students work with their teachers to establish goals to improve behavior, attendance, and school work. Students who achieve their goals are later recognized as Terrific Kids.
James Fraser accepts Terrific Kids certificate. February 27, 2023. (Photo by Natalia Vega)
The word "terrific" is an acronym for thoughtful, enthusiastic, respectful, responsible, inclusive, friendly, inquisitive, and capable.
"During the month, the Builders' Club has announcements and encouragement to be respectful. Then, teachers choose winners in their classes who have demonstrated respectfulness and they get ribbons," said Bouchette.
Since Kiwanis programs were curtailed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Monday marked the first Terrific Kids assembly at P.E. McGibbon Public School in three years.
"It really is exciting to see all these students here," Bouchette said.
Students who received ribbons were applauded by their fellow classmates as they made their way into the gymnasium for the assembly.
Three of the four students who were present to accept their 'Terrific Kids' certificates included Azariya Tate, James Fraser, and Maxine Salmons.
Bouchette said the Terrific Kids program runs at four other schools in Sarnia including Rosedale Public School, Cathcart Boulevard Public School, London Road Public School, and Queen Elizabeth II Public School.
