GEORGETOWN, S.C. —  Nearly 120 third and fourth graders in Georgetown County were treated like Rock stars Monday as they were rewarded for their reading improvements during the past year by the Limos for Learning Foundation.

“This is a day honoring these students for setting their own individual goals, working hard and achieving their goals,” said Betsy Ross, founder and president of Limos for Learning.

The students were picked up from their schools in a white stretch Hummer limo and were chauffeured to Ryan’s Steakhouse for lunch.

They were treated to a magic show from magician Michael Bairfoot as they ate.

Before leaving, the students received a gift bag and a certificate acknowledging their accomplishments, signed by members of the South Carolina House of Representatives Vida Miller and Carl Anderson.

“This program has inspired my grandbaby so much,” said the grandmother of McDonald Elementary School fourth grader Alexia Gause.

About the foundation

Limos for Learning began in Florence County in 2003 with only 15 students enjoying a lunch from McDonalds, according to Vice President Carl Barker, better known as Mr. Carl.

There are now nearly 54,000 kids throughout South Carolina that have participated in the event and there are bigger limos, entertainment and awards given to these kids for their accomplishments.  

“The expansion has grown tremendously,” Barker said.

Ryan’s Restaurant has been the major sponsor for the Limo’s for Learning program for three years.

Click here to see a video of Ross explaining the program and of the students arriving at Ryan’s.

Click here to see a picture slideshow of the event.

By Zack Catandella