• DALLAS
Military children worldwide can cash in on their grades with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s (AAFES) You Made the Grade Program, now entering its 26th year of highlighting academic excellence.
Young scholars in grades first through 12th, including students in specialized programs, can present their report cards to their local PX or BX customer service associate to receive exclusive discounts, prizes and savings.
Students in specialized programs can print a downloadable form and have it completed by a school official each grading period in place of a traditional report card.
“Military students have an unconventional educational experience due to the needs of their parents’ service,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Rich Martinez, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “The You Made the Grade program has successfully highlighted and rewarded our nation’s youngest heroes’ sacrifices and accomplishments for a quarter century.”
HOW IT WORKS
Students with straight A’s will receive a $20 Exchange gift card while students with a B average will receive a $10 Exchange gift card.
In addition to an Exchange gift card, students will also receive an Exchange coupon sheet with freebies including: a small fountain, frozen drink or bubbler beverage; a kid’s meal at a participating Exchange restaurant; a combo meal at a participating Exchange restaurant; and a kid’s hair service (or $15-off) hair service at The Barber Shop or Hair Studios.
Other offers include 10-percent off any pair of headphones (excluding Apple and Beats) and apparel and footwear; and a $5 coupon at Exchange mall concessions or kiosks.
Participating students can also enter the biannual You Made the Grade worldwide sweepstakes for a chance to win a $2,000, $1,500 or $500 Exchange gift card. The spring 2026 drawing will take place in June.
To enter the drawing, students or parents can complete the form on the back of the gift card and mail it to: You Made the Grade, P.O. Box 227398, Dallas, TX 75222-7398.
Source: AAFES
Edited by Larry Lapka
