Marion, SC, April 30, 2021– Marion, SC, April 30, 2021- Marion County School District is proud to announce that Johnakin Middle School has been awarded two honors by the National Beta Club Organization, the 2020-2021 National Beta School of Merit and the 2020-2021 National School of Distinction.

The National Beta School of Merit award is given to honor a club’s dedication and commitment to academic excellence. To achieve this prestigious honor, a school must include members from all eligible grade levels in their Beta club. This year, only 29% of Beta Clubs across the country received this award.

National Beta School of Distinction is an honor for Beta clubs striving towards academic achievement, exemplary character, demonstrated leadership, and service to others. With an ongoing quest to instill these qualities in more students, the National Beta School of Distinction Award is designed to award those schools that show an increase in membership for the current school year. This year, only 14% of Beta Clubs across the country received this award.

In a congratulatory letter to the school, Bobby Hart, CEO said “This national award speaks highly of your commitment to academic excellence and illustrates your dedication to preparing students for their future.”

Johnakin Middle School principal Mr. Mark Fraiser said he is proud of this accomplishment. “We strive to educate 100% of the students 100% of the time and aspire to reach Beta Club status for all our scholars.”

JMS Beta Club sponsor Mr. Marcus Ford said, “We are pleased to achieve this goal and will continue to strive for excellence.”

About National Beta 
With more than 500,000 active members and 9,000 chapters nationally and internationally, National Beta has become the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. National Beta recognizes outstanding achievement, promotes character and social responsibility, encourages service involvement to school and community, and fosters leadership skills. National Junior Beta includes grades 4-8 and National Senior Beta includes grades 9-12. The National Beta program offers over $300,000 annually to its Senior Beta Members. Visit betaclub.org for more information.