St. Dominic High School recently recognized students who made good choices during the first semester by having a dirty soda bar during Empower Hour. Students who got this reward had no infractions, which means they always followed school rules, arrived on time, and treated others with respect. The celebration was meant to show the importance of responsibility and to thank students for doing the right thing every day, even when no one is watching.

During Empower Hour, students were invited to visit the Sister Mary Bender Lobby to receive their drink. After checking in with Mrs. Liszewski or Mrs. Baker, students were able to choose from a bunch of fun dirty soda flavors. Including Berry Bliss, made with Dr. Pepper, strawberry, vanilla, and cream; Uptown Spunk, a mix of Sprite, blue raspberry, and cream; Southern Gentleman, which mixed lemonade and blue raspberry; and Sweet Swirl, with A&W root beer with vanilla, toasted marshmallow, and cream. The big selection allowed students to customize their drinks and made the experience feel fun and special. Students loved the event, enjoying the drinks and the recognition that came with them.

”I thought the dirty soda bar was a super fun idea. It was cool being able to choose any flavor you want and get a free treat during the day. Junior Meagan Davies states “I also think rewarding good behavior and not just getting in trouble for bad behavior is a good way to get people to follow the rules.”

The Dirty Soda Bar was not just about enjoying a drink, but about recognizing good behavior and character. Things like this remind students that their everyday choices matter and that the school sees their responsibility, respect, and consistency. By celebrating students, St. Dominic High School continues to encourage a supportive environment where students are motivated to do their best both inside and outside the classroom.