DOWAGIAC — Last Tuesday, 44 Dowagiac Union High School students proudly held certificates in their hands as they were recognized for their scholastic achievements.

The students were recognized as part of the Youth Experiencing Success Program for receiving all As or Bs in their classes for the third marking period of the school year. The students were recognized at a special program on April 17. The program marked the 24th award ceremony hosted in the history of the YES program.

The goal of the YES program is to partner with local businesses, so the school and the community can show support for our students who excel academically, according to Doug Pearson who is involved with the program. Each business that participates provides some type of gift item for the students who have achieved academic success. This year, Burger King served as a corporate sponsor for the event, something the business has done for the past five years. Over that period of time, Burger King has donated nearly 250 Burger King Combo Meal Guest Cards to the YES Program. Burger King District Manager Jon Aumaugher and local Restaurant Manager Angela Lister spoke at the event Tuesday about their experiences in business and to support the students.

Pearson also congratulated the students at the ceremony.

“This is a significant recognition for earning A’s/B’s in all seven classes for third marking period. You have shown a strong work ethic, dedication, discipline and the desire to excel. You are the group of students who are at the top of your class and you should be proud of your accomplishments,” Pearson said. “We often recognize other students who have performed well in sports, band, drama, or school clubs, but you too need to be recognized for what you do academically. That is what this school is all about.”