The students of Carter Lake Elementary School erupted in applause as the names of four classmates were announced at a school assembly. The students called to the front of the courtyard had not only increased their test scores but also won a schoolwide raffle for a handheld gaming device.

"This is our way of showing Carter Lake that we encourage education," Master Sgt. Daryl Hogan of the McChord Field First Sergeant's Council said.

This was the first time that the council had partnered with the elementary school for such a project. All students who improved their test scores were entered into the raffle; they received one entry for each point gained in reading and math. A few students had more than 50 entries.

The Leapfrog systems were awarded to Keyvonna Cooper and Colin Rosenburg, both in Kindergarten. The Nintendo DS gaming systems went to fifth grader Michael Thomas and first grader Cyrus Custer. Both Michael and Cyrus were excited to win their first DSs. Dawn Custer, Cyrus' mom, was proud of her son's accomplishment.

"It makes me feel good that he's so focused on getting something through hard work," Custer said.

Carter Lake principal Paul Douglas was happy to partner with the First Sergeant's Council.

"It's really positive for them to come out," Douglas said. "The kids really enjoy having them here."

Hogan said that the council hopes to continue its partnership with the school in coming years.

"It's very important (for us to support them), these children are our future," he said. "It was a pleasure to be a part of this and we look forward to being a part of Carter Lake in the future."