CLARION, Pa. (EYT) -The Kiwanis Club of Clarion started implementing the Kiwanis International Bring Up Grades (BUG) program in Fall 2017 in Clarion-Limestone, Redbank Valley, and Union School Districts.

Students who brought up one grade in an academic subject from one grading period to the next were recognized as BUGS and student who received straight A’s were recognized as SUPERBUGS during assemblies throughout the school year.

Kiwanis members in collaboration with the school personnel held “BUG” ceremonies with a visit from our cockroach, complete with his “BUG” juice. Students received a certificate and “BUG” bag for Bringing Up Grades.

“This program has been a huge success for our first year in Clarion County, we hope to acquire additional school districts in the upcoming year and are considering adding other Kiwanis programs in our local school districts,” said Samantha Schrecengost.

“Every chance we get to recognize children for their successes, we are investing in a brighter future.”

During the 2017-2018 school year, Kiwanis members, Samantha Schrecengost, Renee Vowinckel, Devon Vallies, Tyler Kitzmiller, Randall Stom, and Mary and Willy Wilson distributed 2,058 certificates and “BUG” bags to students enrolled in these school districts.

“The BUG program is wonderful. It recognizes students for their hard work and empowers them to be the leader of their academic success,” said Vallies. “When a child receives a BUG bag, it is something so small, but means so much to them. I love being part of this program and seeing the difference we can make in a child’s life. It’s why we do what we do.”

“I love being able to award the children for their achievements and see their excitement when our BUG visits the assemblies,” said Vowinckel.

For information on Kiwanis or the Bring Up Grades (BUG) program, contact Samantha Schrecengost, [email protected] or 814-938-3302, ext. 236.