Photo Provided John Gregg Elementary students are benefitting from incentives that reward them for good grades and positive behaviors, including the implementation of Burchfield Bucks and the Shout Out Board. Burchfield Bucks, named for Principal Tammy Burchfield, are given when students excel in perfect attendance, reading above their benchmark and MAP testing and state tests. Among recent recipients have been, pictured from left, Blossom Blue, Jacob Kinney, Colt McCoy, Jaycee Rendell and Bella Webb.

BERGHOLZ — John Gregg Elementary students are benefitting from incentives that reward improvements in academics and behaviors.

Principal Tammy Burchfield said pupils have experienced growth both inside and outside the classroom and are rewarded through “Burchfield Bucks” as well as a Shout Out Board displayed near the main office. The incentive program has been underway for the past few years and is designed to recognize those who show improvement with tests, attendance, and good behavior.

“There are different measures [for receiving Burchfield Bucks] if they receive excellence in perfect attendance, reading above the benchmark, MAP testing for math and reading if they are in the 80th percentile or over and being accomplished or advanced on state tests,” Burchfield said. “In some measures, Burchfield Bucks are also given out for significant growth.”

Students who receive the unique currency may redeem them for items in the Spirit Corner which is led by the school PTO each month. She noted an uptick in academics and behaviors, saying the method has proven to be successful.

“Every year, we do see an increase as the grade levels get older,” she said.

Another incentive is the Shout Out Board, where kids doing good deeds are recognized. Teachers and staff may provide names of students, then they receive small cards that they place into numbered slots on the board.

“The cards maintain the three expectations of the school, which is being respectful, responsible, and safe. When they are ‘caught,’ they receive the cards,” she continued. “The board holds 100 cards and I randomly choose three cards, then the students are called to the office and select items from a treasure chest. They may also receive the card back, and after they accumulate five they may exchange them for Burchfield Bucks to make purchases.”

Four of the faux dollars may also be turned in for a token to the school’s book vending machine, while students who hit a goal and fill the board several times could earn a whole-school prize, and among previous rewards were an organized field day to play outside and enjoy game stations.

Burchfield said the board has been filled consistently, showing that kids are doing plenty of good on a constant basis. The purpose of the incentive plan is to create an environment that produces proficiency in reading, math, writing, and collaborative skills so students are prepared for tomorrow.