More than 50 fourth graders at Clanton Intermediate School were recognized for their good grades during an A Honor Tea on Thursday.

The theme of the tea was, “We’re on fire for good grades.”

Clanton Fire Chief David Driver spoke to the students and their family members gathered in the school library about the importance of a strong work ethic.

“I challenge you to work hard,” Driver said. “You being in here proves that you work hard. Nothing in life is free; you have to earn everything you’ve got.”

Driver drew a parallel between the structure of the fire department and the structure of the school to convey the value of each person performing his or her job.

He compared the students to firefighters, teachers to officers and the principal to the fire chief in the hierarchy of employment.

Driver talked about his duties as fire chief and said he loves his job.

“I want to retire doing what I’m doing,” Driver said. “I love it. I miss being at work.”

Mattie Cleckler welcomed students, faculty and guests to the tea.

Driver’s daughter, Taylor, introduced him as guest speaker.

CIS Principal David Seale, counselor Lisa Baker and teachers Pamela Smith and Stacey Easterling helped distribute certificates, plastic fire helmets and mementos to students.

Jakobe Worthy offered a prayer before students ate refreshments.

CIS honor scholars are: D.J. Argo, Cayden Anderson, Anna Kathryn Baker, Jacie Baker, Kaden Baker, Kayley Bean, Aidan Bee, Logan Bice, Sophia Chen, Mattie Cleckler, Cissy Cofer, Bella Collins, Morgan Cullum, Taylor Curtis, Coy Crumpton, Bradeon Driver, Mason Driver, Taylor Driver, Jack Ellison, Noah Empson, Wesley Franklin, Malorie Fredrick, Madison Glenn, Kelsie Goggins, Kaitlyn Harrison, Dallas Hooper, Makinlee Lowery, Joshua Minor, Tressa Miller, Lydia Newton, Isaiah Owens, Claire Parker, Brennan Payton, Halle Pegram, Alexis Pierce, Marissa Pierce, Jensyn Porter, Belle Richardson, Caleigh Sanders, Mary Grace Smith, Kalyn Smith, Juan Sosa, Lilly Speaks, Renya Spence, Lynn Stamps, Alyvia Stilwell, Jacob Stoneback, Alexander Tatum, Kristin Thomas, Garrett Traywick, Asher Willis, Jakobe Worthy and Morgan Wright.