‘Count Me In’ Campaign

Students in the Harrison County School District definitely made the nice list this year as they were rewarded with a variety of prizes for their hard work in the classroom.

Fifty-four students in the Harrison County School District were recognized at the first annual ‘Count Me In’ campaign. This celebration focused on the students who have achieved perfect attendance so far this year. Harrison County Director of Student Services Dr. Laretta Marks said, “Absentee affects academic achievement. We want children to understand we want them to graduate and not drop out.”

Students had a chance to win all types of prizes including bikes, iPod Nanos, pizza, and one lucky student got the chance to win four tickets to the Saints’ final home game against the Carolina Panthers. Sixth grader Bryson Brazzell said, “I won an iPod and I won an iTunes gift card.”

Fifth grader Brandon Buck said, “Just to see Drew Brees. (Do you think the Saints are going to the Super Bowl?) yes sir.”

Academy Sports and Outdoors gave away 30 bikes and helmets to students. As a company, they try to give away over 5,000 bikes a year. Academy Sports and Outdoors Manager Matthew Fasler said, “Just seeing the kids smile over there, man. It’s worth it. With the community response we get, the customers that we have are awesome. This is just one little way that we can give back to the community.”

The ‘Count Me In’ campaign will continue throughout the rest of the school year. The goal behind the program is to raise academic achievement, reduce the dropout rate, and increase good behavior to keep students headed towards graduation. “Academic achievement affects dropout rate and graduation rate. I’m pleased to say Harrison County School District has a high graduation rate right now,” said Dr. Marks.