The Kiwanis Club of La Cañada hosted a recent luncheon honoring 24 “Terrific Kids” chosen from the sixth grade classrooms of La Cañada Elementary, Palm Crest Elementary and Paradise Canyon Elementary schools. The students were selected from their classrooms based on qualities such as displaying a positive attitude and responsible citizenship.

The luncheon gave the students from all three schools a chance to come together so they could be formally recognized with their family members and guests in attendance. A few weeks prior to the event, the students were surprised with a visit from Kiwanis Club of La Cañada members Nancy Leininger, the Terrific Kids coordinator, Dr. Michael Leininger and Tom Slaughter who made the initial announcements and provided certificates to the students during each of the schools’ spirit rallies.

Among those enjoying the luncheon festivities were La Cañada Unified School District Superintendent Wendy Sinnette and La Cañada Kiwanis members La Cañada Flintridge Mayor Len Pieroni, La Cañada Flintridge Mayor Pro-tem Greg Brown, LCUSD Board of Education President Brent Kuszyk, Vice President Joe Radabaugh and board member Kaitzer Puglia. Also present were school principals Carrie Hetzel from Paradise Canyon Elementary, Emily Blaney from La Cañada Elementary, and Cory Pak from Palm Crest Elementary School.

Terrific Kids coordinator Nancy Leininger served as mistress of ceremonies.

“You students were chosen from your sixth grade classrooms as models of stellar citizenship, as well as with your multitude of distinguished character traits,” said coordinator Leininger. “The Kiwanis organizations from all over the world share the same mission to serve the children of the world, and the TK program is one of the many ways we focus on those who will lead us into the future. We congratulate all the students and thank the families for nurturing and supporting these extraordinary young people.” 

For over 30 years, the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada Terrific Kids program has been honoring local students for being thoughtful, enthusiastic, respectful, responsible, inclusive, friendly, inquisitive and capable. 

Those interested in becoming a member of the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada are invited to attend a lunch meeting featuring a guest speaker of the week. The Kiwanis help youth by sponsoring community projects and scholarships within a club atmosphere of fun and friendship. The group meets every Wednesday at noon at Descanso Gardens in the Van de Kamp Hall. Visit www.lacanadakiwanis.org and click on “Meetings” to reserve a seat.