Choctaw Nation
Katy Pickens
DURANT – The Choctaw Nation Success Through Academic Recognition (STAR) Program shows that hard work pays off – literally. Choctaw students in second through 12th grades are rewarded for academic achievements with Walmart gift cards at the end of each semester. All A’s on a report card will earn a $25 gift card and nothing under a B will bring a $10 gift card.
“Students can collect an additional $25 gift card by perfect attendance,” said Jason Campbell, STAR Program director. “It’s an incentive for success.”
A recent poll of parents indicates that it is working. A total of 91.9 percent said the STAR Program has had a positive effect on their children’s grades.
Currently, the program serves 20,000 students in 48 states and six foreign nations. Home-schooled students also may participate.
Students have until Sept. 1 to turn in their 2019 spring semester report cards and attendance records to obtain their rewards cards. To sign up for STAR or learn more, phone STAR Program Manager Ashley James at 800-522-6170, ext. 2573 or visit www.choctawnation.com/star-program.