We know that teams who score the most typically win or take home the grand prize.  However, did you know that this may not always be the case?  You read correctly!  There are times when Zero Takes the Prize!    Twenty-five fifth graders at Hawthorne Elementary have first-hand knowledge of instances in which this is the case. For the first nine weeks of school, these students chose to: Do the Right Thing, Consistently Complete Assignments, Exhibit Outstanding Conduct, and Demonstrate Excellent Citizenship.  For this, and more, they received their certificates entitling them to become members of Hawthorne’s First Zero Point Club!

Not only were club members treated to a private luncheon celebration with their teachers, they also mingled with the Bosses!  Dr. Wynton Walker, Hawthorne’s principal, and Dr. Angela Wanton, an assistant principal, presented the students with their certificates before shaking their hands.  “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for choosing to do the right thing,” beamed Dr. Walker.  She added, “It takes determination, strength, strong character and a willingness to hold fast to your convictions.” Dr. Wanton added, “Yes, we soar high at Hawthorne Elementary!”

How does this system work?  How does one become rich with no money or points in the bank?  The fifth grade is departmentalized, so students change classes daily.  Each student has an individual score sheet which details letter codes, lists various infractions and indicates the number of points for each infraction.  Adults keep close tabs on the numbers (or lack of numbers) for each student in his/her care.  All numbers are tallied up at the end.  However, only students who did not receive points are the winners!  In other words, All Zeros Win! 

Students had some explaining to do to Debra Howard, Hawthorne’s Math Coach.  The numbers just weren’t adding up!  She proudly added that she understood in this case.  She also gave her congratulations and well wishes!

All of the newly inducted club members ate and seemed to enjoy their lunch.  However, you had to be there to witness such.  Each member sat quietly, listened, spoke only when spoken to, and gave thanks for having the privilege of dining with the Bosses!   At one point, teachers did tell them that it was okay to talk.  They did. However, it was still only a whisper. 

Next time students are vying for Movie Day with the Bankers: Dr. Nicole Reese, Mrs. Dana Hawkins, Mrs. Monica Williams, Mrs. Adrian Oliver, Mrs. Christine Griffin, and Mr. Edmund Webb.