Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Monday, July 14, 2008

 The stars came out early at Russell Cave Elementary School, where 18 youngsters who scored “distinguished” on their learning checks took center stage at a special luncheon.

  As the honorees filed into the cafeteria Friday, they crossed a red carpet flanked by ferns and a walk of fame complete with personalized stars underfoot.

  “I come up with a theme and see how far we can go with it,” said cafeteria manager Illa Thurmond, who is in charge of the event each fall and spring.

  This time, it was all about Hollywood. From the film-strip place cards at the head table and kids’ photos posted on the wall to the star-shaped, sugar-dusted brownies for dessert, the scene was set for a day of celebration.

  “These are our little stars,” Thurmond said of the students.

  Of 95 children in third, fourth and fifth grade at Russell Cave, 18 scored “distinguished” on their learning checks in February. They were recognized at an awards assembly before Spring Break; then came the “distinguished” luncheon.

  Norman Owens, whose daughter Mackie was among the honorees, took time out of his workday for the event. “It gives them an incentive,” he said of the star treatment.

  “Hopefully it’s a motivator for (other students) to perform on the next learning check and be treated special,” said Principal Betsy Rutherford.

  First-grader Jazhiel Renteria was impressed. After moving through the cafeteria line, he realized that his usual lunch spot was unavailable. That table, covered with a white cloth and accented with purple tulips as a centerpiece, was reserved for parents of the honorees.

  “We’ll get to do it when we’re in third grade,” Jazhiel said expectantly as wide-eyed youngsters tiptoed behind the head table to get a peek at the decorations.

  “Illa and her staff really do a nice job,” Rutherford said. “It’s kind of a team effort.”

  Personalized plates were among the highlights; a decoupage photo of each child adorned his or her clear, glass plate as a keepsake. The kids also took home Oscar-worthy goodie bags filled with shampoo, toothbrushes, restaurant coupons and other surprises.

  Thurmond handed out stick-on stars to the other students.

  “I tell them they’re my future stars,” she said.