Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Supports Terrific Kids Program at Local Elementary Schools

Belle Terre Elementary School

Wadsworth Elementary School

Rymfire Elementary School

Bunnell Elementary School

Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast recently continued its longstanding commitment to local students by presenting Terrific Kids Program funds to four elementary schools in Flagler County.

Dr. Maria Pinto Barbosa, Chair of the Terrific Kids Program for Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast, represented the club during the presentations. The funds will help participating schools purchase trophies used to recognize students for positive behavior, personal growth, achievement, kindness, responsibility, and continued effort.

The Terrific Kids Program is a Kiwanis-sponsored student recognition initiative designed to encourage children to set goals, strengthen character, make positive choices, and become responsible and caring members of their school communities.

For many students, receiving a Terrific Kids trophy is an important moment of recognition. The award represents more than academic or behavioral achievement; it reminds children that their efforts are noticed, appreciated, and celebrated by their teachers, families, schools, and community.

Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast has remained committed to supporting children and educational programs throughout the community. Through partnerships with local schools, the club works to promote confidence, leadership, personal responsibility, and service among young people.

Service to Terrific Kids Since October 19,1996

During the 1995–1996 school year, the program’s operating expenses exceeded $1,000. The program was chaired at that time by Past President Joel Rosen, followed by Past President Dr. Richard Conkling passed to $4,000., whose leadership helped continue and strengthen this meaningful Kiwanis initiative.

Over the years, the Terrific Kids Program has continued to grow, along with the cost of providing recognition and awards to students. Today, due to increased costs and the continued commitment to supporting local elementary school students, approximately $12,000 has been budgeted to sustain the program.

What began as a recognition program at Bunnell Elementary School has developed into a lasting Kiwanis tradition of encouraging children, celebrating their accomplishments, and reminding students that their positive choices and hard work are valued by their schools and community.

For Dr. Maria Pinto Barbosa- Past President, the program carries special meaning. She has served as Chair of the Terrific Kids Program for Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast for more than 12 years.

“It has been an honor and a blessing to serve as Chair of the Terrific Kids Program,” Dr. Barbosa said. “This wonderful program recognizes and celebrates elementary school students throughout Flagler County for their positive behavior, personal growth, achievements, and efforts to become their very best.”

She added that one of the most rewarding parts of the program is witnessing the excitement of the students when they are recognized.

“One of my greatest joys is seeing the smiles and pride on the children’s faces when they receive their trophies. Every child deserves to know that their efforts matter and that their community believes in them.”

Dr. Barbosa also expressed appreciation for the many individuals and organizations that make the program possible.

“I am grateful to Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast, our schools, administrators, teachers, families, and fellow Kiwanis members for continuing to support this meaningful program. Together, we are encouraging our children, strengthening their confidence, and inspiring the next generation of caring and responsible leaders.”

Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast looks forward to continuing its partnership with local schools and supporting programs that make a positive difference in the lives of children throughout Flagler County.

Kids Need Kiwanis!

By Dr. Maria Pinto Barbosa 9-29-2026

#KiwanisFlaglerPalmCoast #TerrificKidsProgram #Barbosa #FlaglerCountySchools #elementare #students #recognition #Kiwanis

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