Madison 5th graders graduate from EMPOWER program

It was graduation in January for Madison 5th grade students on Friday.  Madison Central 5th graders recently completed a nine-week program called “EMPOWER”, which is aimed at helping them make good choices in their lives, especially when it comes to alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. The course is led by Madison School Resource Officer Ben Gant, with the help of other local law enforcement.

Dakota State University football head coach Josh Anderson was the guest speaker for Friday’s graduation ceremony.  Anderson told the 5th graders that the choices they make are important to their futures.

Anderson told the students that they are responsible for their own choices, and that as a college coach, he looks at that when recruiting students and athletes as well.

Anderson said that life is full of tough decisions and he encouraged the 5th graders to make the right ones.

Madison 5th graders also received a certificate, an EMPOWER bracelet, and treats from the Madison Dairy Queen to complete their graduation celebration.