It's Christmastime around the world and for Optimist Clubs that means Christmas Tree sales, Breakfast with Santa and Shop with a Cop activitities, among many more traditional and non-traditional projects to help bring joy to the lives of children. Well here's a project that teaches discipline while bringing meaning to the season.On December 21, 2015 at Horace Mann Elementary School in Sioux City, South Dakota, the students went on a shopping spree for Christmas gifts. The twist? They purchased the gifts with points they had earned in class during the semester. According to teacher Jaci Mowinkel, the points are given for completing homework, following directions, replacing their books when finished and other tasks that are often hard especially for students with behavioral issues.
Now of course there is another twist to this Christmas story. Normally, the students earn points as an award for themselves, but this time, they used the points to procure Christmas presents for others. Now that's the meaning of the season.
The Optimist Club of Sioux City was there to help wrap the gifts. Members help purchase the merchandise carried in the store throughout the year.
Please click here to enjoy the video of the story at KDLT News Today.
