Video: Students At Verona Elementary Get Rewarded Big For Good Grades, Behavior And Attendance

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VERONA, MISS. (WCBI) –  Thirty students at Verona Elementary learned that hard work, and good behavior pays off.
As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports, the grade schoolers enjoyed an early Christmas, thanks to a local sporting goods store.
Employees from Academy Sports played the part of Santa’s Elves, as they unloaded a truck full of 30 brand new bicycles for a special pre Christmas program at Verona Elementary.

All this year, those who did exceptionally well in accelerated reading, had good behavior or perfect attendance, had their names entered into a drawing for the bicycles.

Fifteen girls and fifteen boys are taking home a special, early Christmas present.

“I think it’s pretty cool to work for a place that decides to get involved in the community at the level, these kids will grow up and this is part of what they will remember as adults,” said Michael Horne, store director.

Principal Tameka Shannon is grateful Academy Sports demonstrated the spirit of giving at her school.

“My heart is overjoyed, because of those students that might not have such an extravagant Christmas, so if they don’t open another gift from here till Christmas, they know they received something from school and it also ties back to being rewarded for hard work,” Shannon said.

Students say they learned valuable lessons.

“The reason it’s important to do good in school is because you have to get a good education to go to college and get a job.”
And you might win a bike.
“Yessir,” said Shakayla Thomas.

Why is it important to be at school everyday?
“To learn new things,” said Elijah Carnathan.

The boys and girls will have plenty of time to ride their new bicycles. The last day of school before Christmas break is Friday. In Verona.

Academy Outdoors gives away bikes in each town where a store is located.