Thomas County Central High School students who have excelled in academics received a special treat Friday.

Students waited all summer long to reap a reward from the previous school year. TCCHS students who made all As on their fourth nine weeks report card delivered at the end of May were invited to travel off-campus for lunch on Aug. 15.

"Whenever we have a chance to celebrate our students' academic success, we certainly want to highlight their accomplishments,” said Dr. James T. Rehberg, director of gifted, honors and accelerated instruction. “It's nice to take them out, give them a range of choices for lunch, and let them forget about school for a short time." "They always show a great deal of enthusiasm about the trip off campus and I think it motivates them to work hard once they get back in the classroom. Each trip we add more participants."

Students had a chance to eat at Zaxby's, Longhorn Steakhouse, or Whataburger.

“All A Lunch is a great way to reward those students who have succeeded academically,” said participant Tessa McCorkle. “I am fortunate to be a part of such a fantastic group of students.”