July 13, 2018 -- Proving that hard work pays off, Westchester County Executive George Latimer presented certificates of achievement to middle and high school students at Playland, in honor of the “Do Well, Play Well” Program. The Program, which is spearheaded by the Westchester County Youth Bureau, recognizes students who have attained high academic performance, excellent attendance or initiated significant improvements in their school community during the 2017- 2018 academic year. Over 120 youth achieved the below criterion for the Program, and received a free season pass to Playland:
Academic Performance: Report Card showing a Final G.P.A. of at least 3.5 or higher.
Excellent Attendance: Report Card showing perfect attendance for the entire school year, or a letter from the student’s principal or guidance counselor indicating that the applicant improved attendance from the beginning to the end of the school year.
Overcoming Significant Barriers: A recommendation from the student’s principal or guidance counselor indicating a unique circumstance, where a student made significant improvements in their academics or behavior in school.
Latimer said: “These students have proven that they are dedicated to earning high achievement in the classroom, and they deserve to be commended for that. The “Do Well, Play Well” Program simply serves as a little extra motivation to let our students know that we are behind them, and that by doing well in school, they will be exposed to a lifetime of opportunities.”
Executive Director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said: “The Do Well-Play Well” initiative confirms that small gestures, such as the offering of a free season pass to Playland, may have greater impact on youth morale and agency. By encouraging young people to perform well academically and socially, Westchester County will benefit from the future generation of motivated and scholastically sound leaders.”
Youth Board Member Hannah Tolz, who came up with the slogan “Do Well, Play Well” said: “‘Do Well, Play Well’ is an inspiring initiative that rewards students for their dedication to education. Hard working students are vital for the future, and I am honored to live in a County that rewards students in an effort to promote the positive development of youth in Westchester.”
The free season pass to Playland includes free admission to the park and unlimited rides.