Archery is gaining in popularity among schools that received cash grants to teach the sport.

"I think it's pretty fun," said Pleasant Hope middle schooler Jace Shirk.

There's something about shooting a bow and arrow that's making a mark on these students.

" It is harder than it looks because well you don't know where it's going to go," said Shirk.

For physical education teacher Bob Garrison, it's about more than having fun.

"They'll watch each other now and when one of them hits the goal, their friends are going to want to hit it two times," said Garrison.

This sport gives students a new purpose in the classroom.

"It gives them self confidence they need to succeed," said Garrison.

Garrison says the great thing about this sport is it keeps kids on target with their grades and attendance.

" Kids who have a habit of missing school if they're absent or late, it doesn't occur during the three weeks we have the archery program. Kids will be here before school, they'll be in the parking lot and they'll say, 'Mr. Garrison, can we help set it up?' If they get it set up, they get 15-20 minutes of extra shooting," said Garrison.

Behavioral problems also take a dive because students know if they act up, they won't get to play.

"They'll say you better behave yourself or you won't get to shoot," said Garrison.

And there's something about hitting the bulls eye that gives a sense of pride that keeps students coming back for more.