Strong attendance is a critical key for a successful school and its students. Student incentive programs can encourage students to strive for good attendance by providing rewards. Certificates of merit can be given for good attendance. Teachers can hold contests for the best student attendance record, and schools can hold contests between classes for attendance rates. Other incentives, such as extra recess time and snacks, have also proven successful.
Some educators set pillars of character for students. These pillars may include such things as honesty, integrity and sharing. When a student exhibits any of the pillars he is given a prize or receives praise for showing good character. The recognition and reward system for specific character traits encourages students to embrace good morals and positive interaction skills.
Each month a student may be selected for an exemplary act or achievement. The teacher or principle can give special recognition by announcing the student's praise over the public announcement system. A student also may be presented with a certificate of achievement. Special recognition can be given for such things as academic growth or acts of good behavior.
Money awards also have been implemented to raise grades and standardized test scores. Financial incentives have received more scrutiny and have opponents. However, school districts in Manhattan have successfully facilitated programs that involve cash incentives for students who do well in standardized testing.