Optimist Club recognizes that best and brightest means more than grades!

The Hattiesburg Optimist Club in Hattiesburg, MS takes time each year to recognize fifth graders for being exemplary students. However, that doesn't mean they have to athletes or straight A students. According to Optimist Club member and activity coordinator Barbara Stanford, the recognition is for "Those good students who represent their school well."

The kids were introduced by their teachers or parents and they received a medal from the Optimist Club signifying their honor. Jalah Singleton, who plans to hang her medal on the wall in her bedroom, said she enjoys representing her school. "It really makes me feel like I'm really a good student," she said. "I'm proud of myself."

Read about these great children in the Hattiesburg American.