The Kiwanis Club of La Cañada hosted a luncheon in January honoring 22 “Terrific Kids” chosen from the sixth grade classrooms at La Cañada, Palm Crest and Paradise Canyon elementary schools.

Teachers chose the Terrific Kids based on positive attitude, good character and responsible citizenship. 

Prior to the luncheon, students were notified by a surprise visit from Kiwanis Club of La Cañada members and Terrific Kids coordinator Nancy Leininger, Dr. Michael Leininger and Tom Slaughter, who handed out certificates. 

Among the nearly 100 in attendance at the luncheon were La Cañada Unified School District Superintendent Wendy Sinnette; LCUSD Board of Education members (who are also members of the La Cañada Kiwanis) President Brent Kuszyk, Vice President Joe Radabaugh and board member Kaitzer Puglia. Also present were school principals Carrie Hetzel from Paradise Canyon Elementary and Emily Blaney from La Cañada Elementary. Participating in the recognition program, but unavailable to attend, was Palm Crest Elementary School Principal Karen Hurley.

Parents and guests of the awardees were invited to attend the lunch celebration.

“We congratulate the students and thank the families for nurturing and supporting extraordinary positive behaviors and activities,” said Nancy Leininger. “I’m proud to share their wonderful words – all about you.” She then read a few sentences submitted by each teacher to summarize why each student was chosen.

The Kiwanis Club of La Cañada Terrific Kids program has been honoring local students for over 30 years. The program is conducted by Kiwanis Clubs all over the world who define “Terrific” as: Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Responsible, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable. 

Those interested in joining the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada are welcome to attend a lunch meeting. The group meets every Wednesday at 11:50 a.m. at Descanso Gardens in the Van de Kamp Hall. The goal of the club is to help youth thru sponsoring community projects and scholarships. Visit www.lacanadakiwanis.org and click on “Meetings” to reserve a seat.