Caught Being Good!
My school recently implemented a school-wide initiative in which all staff members are able to reward classes that follow school rules. We call this “Pawsitive Paws.” This is to encourage knowledge and application of school rules. (1. I am SAFE. 2. I Am Respectful. 3. I Am a Learner.)
Each staff member is stocked up with tickets (red [1 pt]for regular staff members and gold [5pts] for administrative team members). As a staff member sees an entire class following one of the school rules, they pass out a ticket to that particular classroom teacher. This teacher then displays the tickets however they wish. I place mine on the outside of my classroom door to show pride for my students’ behavior and encourage other classes to earn paws as well.
At the end of the month, one class is selected from each grade level that earned the most tickets. This class earns an entire week of extra recess! (It only amounts to 5 extra minutes each day of the week, but for the kids just knowing it’s “extra” is enough for them!)
Of course, my students won the first challenge! (Check it out: click here) All students LOVE the incentive, but they love even more when they are caught doing something great! This has motivated students to talk about the school rules with one another as well as become model citizens throughout the building. It has transformed our school into a positive climate where the focus is on learning because the behavior is stellar!
Follow our school on Twitter (@berewickelem) and on Facebook (Berewick Elementary School Official)!
How does your school recognize student who follow school rules?
Are students rewarded for being model scholars?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.