Approximately 600 students will be recognized for staying focused, on task and on time at the 23nd annual Academic Achievement Awards presented by AT&T.

The Laurinburg/Scotland County Area Chamber of Commerce will hold the ceremony on June 1 at Pate Stadium beginning at 6 p.m.

“One of our primary sponsorship focuses is in the field of education,” said John Lyon of AT&T. “We realize that there is an ongoing need to ensure that our children are getting the very best education possible to prepare themselves for college, if that is their desire, and to eventually be successful in whatever their field of interest might be. The Academic Achievement Awards program provides an incentive for the children to want to do well in school. And if a child wants to do well in their school work, that motivation will help them to proceed successfully toward graduation.”

Third through eighth grade students receive a t-shirt, donated by Champion Sports Products Distribution, an award certificate and a free meal, courtesy of Golden Corral Restaurant, for maintaining a 90 or above grade average all year. “It's always great to be able to recognize students for their hard work throughout the school year,” said Chamber Education Committee Chair Andy Cagle. “We really appreciate the support of AT&T, Champion, Golden Corral and all the folks in Scotland County who help us put on this wonderful event for our kids.”

“AT&T is extremely proud to have been the sponsor of this event for the past 23 years,” Lyon went on to say. “This partnership with the Chamber and the school district is one of our longest standing partnerships, and the overall winners in this are the students in Scotland County.”

Members of the business community that would like to show their support for academic excellence, and be recognized or assist at the ceremony, can call the chamber for information at 276-7420 or e-mail mkendall@laurinburgchamber.com.