They say doing a good deed is its own reward. While that may be true, it is nice to be recognized every once in a while for your good efforts. The Middle School Awards Banquet is exactly the time of the year when our club tries to hand out that recognition.

Each spring, every West Madison Middle School is asked to identify one 8th grade student who exemplifies the service ideals of Kiwanis. There are no grade requirements, although many of the students excel academically, there is no need to be a good athlete or musician, although we recognize both skills at the High School level. No, just like in our club, we want service leaders!

These young men and women are invited to join us at a luncheon, with their parents and a school administrator, so they can be thanked for all the good they do. In addition to the adoration of the crowd, they receive a savings bond, a framed certificate of accomplishment and a chance to participate in the Key leader program.