It was a special morning for a Girard student who received the second Emerging Leaders C.L.A.S.S. Act award, from the Northwest Tri Country Intermediate Unit.

Out of several nominees, one was chosen as the student of the month and received a $1,000 scholarship and the chance to be entered to win a $5,000 scholarship.

Gage Burtis is a senior at Girard High School and was thrilled to be chosen as a recipient.

In addition to taking classes, he is involved with the marching band and takes courses at Erie Tech. After graduation he plans to either enter the military or work as a lineman at Penelec. 

"It makes me really happy that people are acknowledging that I like to do good in school," said Gage. "I definitely love this school, especially the music program."

School officials across all 17 districts in the IU5 will nominate one student in 10th through 12th grade per month.

"In the back of my mind I've been thinking of some kids who might emerge as our nomination and I was really excited that the faculty brought Gage's name to my attention early in the year," said Eric Louis, principal. "This is really his season of the school year, especially with marching band going on."

Lilly Broadcasting along with Velocity Net, Orthopedic Associates of Meadville, and Tendto Credit Union are sponsoring this unprecedented scholarship program in the region.