Ellis Middle School students are proving that character does count — and the payoffs are pretty tasty.

The school recognizes students who exemplify good character with cards, which they drop off with Hy-Vee cashiers. The store also includes students who have been named Citizens of the Month.

Every quarter, Hy-Vee draws 10 names from each grade for a lunch and tour by store director Todd Hepler.

“We believe in our young leaders,” said Hepler, who has three children at Ellis and five there next year. “They want to come out here, so they want to show good character.”

Hepler had approached Ellis with his proposal to honor the students, and the first lunch and tour was held in November. The store budgeted $20,000 for the program the first year, and plans to continue it next year.

On Friday, students recognized for the quarter were treated to a buffet of pizza, hot wings, french fries and other kid-friendly fare as well as a tour from Hepler, who said they are allowed to ask questions, take a peek in the freezer and even sit in his office chair.

Dewey Schara, assistant principal at Ellis, said the recognition program is a hit.

“It’s really awesome,” he said. “It’s really popular with the kids.”