Griffin High School on Monday presented 387 students with certificates for their academic success and perfect attendance during its Honors Day in the school’s commons.

“We want to recognize them for their achievements and try to celebrate our students,” Principal Janet Ware said. “They deserve it. These kids do right every day.”

All students who, during the first semester of the current school year, had perfect attendance, were on the A-and-B Honor Roll or were on the All-A Honor Roll were asked to walk up to the podium, as their parents and other students cheered in the audience.

The final category included four students who achieved the highest cumulative grade-point average for their grade. Here, Jed Paz (ninth grade), Dominique Appling (10th grade), Kristen Tuggle (11th grade) and Dakota Thaxton (12th grade) received certificates.

Honors Day at Griffin High is about more than being handed a sheet of paper, said Student Body President Ryan Haire, who was one of the recipients.

“I see this award ceremony grow each year. We work hard all semester. What’s the point of working hard if you are not recognized (for it)?” he asked.

Plus, it may have a positive effect on those who leave the celebration without a certificate this time.

“If (recipients’) friends see them get an award, they want to shoot for the same thing,” he said.