Priceville Elementary School second grader Peyton Phillips holds a check representing $1,800 in Kroger gift cards his school received on May 15 as a winner in Kroger’s Earning Plus Learning Program. Pictured behind him, from left, are Principal Dr. Anne Knowlton, his father, Ricky Phillips, Kroger’s regional grocery and drug coordinator in Huntsville, Tanya McCain, TAG teacher and Priceville Mayor Melvin Duran.

Priceville Elementary School was recognized as one of five North Alabama Schools to receive a Kroger Earning for Learning Grant in 2013.

The school was awarded a check representing $1,800 in Kroger gift cards on May 15 during Fun Day. Ricky Phillips, regional grocery and drug coordinator for Kroger, presented the award. He also delivered a basket filled with organic food items available at Kroger stores.

A scrapbook created by fourth grade talented and gifted students was submitted to Kroger officials for award judging.

“The scrapbook showcased how students respect diversity, engage in exercise, nourish their minds and bodies, and play fairly while helping others,” said TAG teacher Tanya McCain. “Each page was carefully designed by a leader displaying their love for learning.

“Our thanks go out to Kroger and those students for synergizing and creating a win—win.”

“We chose Kroger gift cards over cash because by doing that we received $300 more,” explained principal Dr. Anne Knowlton. “We are not permitted to use state money to buy food or make other non-education purchases. But we can use the gift cards to buy food when we host the town council for dinner or for expenses related to teachers’ meetings or special events involving parents.”