Feb. 27, 2026 – What began as typical assemblies for third grade students at Westview K-8 and Jacksonville Heights elementary schools ended with big surprises –– every student received a brand-new bike.
Through the Bikes for Kids Foundation program, students participated in activities designed to help them internalize four core values: Think Big, Work Hard, Be Kind, and No Excuses. As part of the program, Students participated in an essay contest, writing about what they want to be when they grow up and how they would set goals and work hard to achieve their dreams.
Students believed that only three winning essays would earn bikes, but they were in for a surprise.
The surprise came during assemblies at both schools, as students leaned in eagerly to hear the essay winners announced by Board Chair Charlotte D. Joyce. Following the announcements, Chief Academic Officer Paula Renfro and Anthony Cadieux, Co-Founder and CEO of CoAqua NA, Inc., and leader of the local Bikes for Kids initiative, stepped up to the podium to congratulate the winners.
Renfro suggested giving away one more bike, sparking enthusiastic chants of “One more bike! One more bike!” from the students. Moments later, the curtains parted to reveal rows of bikes lined up behind the stage. Cadieux then announced, “Everyone gets a bike!”
The room erupted in cheers as students took in the surprise. At Jacksonville Heights Elementary, some were so stunned that one student asked in disbelief, “Everyone gets a bike? Even me?”
For Cadieux, the program is about more than bikes — it’s about shaping mindsets.
“We’re trying to change their attitude and make them think getting good grades is cool,” Cadieux said.
He explained that the goal is to help students see that working hard and achieving in the classroom is something to be proud of. By pairing lessons, reflection, and rewards, the Bike for Kids program ultimately encourages students to develop strong habits, build confidence, and recognize their potential.