INCENTIVES FOR SUCCEEDING — John Gregg Elementary pupils are are receiving incentives that reward them for receiving good grades and having positive behavior. The school has implemented Burchfield Bucks and a Shout Out Board. Burchfield Bucks, named for Principal Tammy Burchfield, are given when students excel in the areas of perfect attendance, reading above their benchmark, MAP testing or state testing. Recent recipients have included, from left, Blossom Blue, Jacob Kinney, Colt McCoy, Jaycee Rendell and Bella Webb. -- Contributed

BERGHOLZ — Pupils attending John Gregg Elementary School are receiving incentives that reward them for improvements made in the areas of academics and behavior.

Principal Tammy Burchfield explained the children have experienced growth — inside and outside of the classroom.

They are now rewarded through what is known as Burchfield Bucks, along with a Shout Out Board, which is 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 testing, attendance and good behavior.

“There are different measures for receiving Burchfield Bucks,” the principal stated.

She noted the bucks will be given if students “receive excellence in perfect attendance, reading above the benchmark, MAP testing for math and reading if they are in the 80th percentile or over, or if they are accomplished or advanced on state tests.”

Sometimes, the bucks are given for a student having significant growth.

Those who receive this unique currency can redeem them for items in the Spirit Corner store, which is led by the school PTO.

Burchfield noted an increase 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 school’s Shout Out Board, where students doing good deeds get recognized.

Teachers and staff can provide names of students, who will receive small cards they place into the board’s numbered slots.

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

Four of the faux dollars can be turned in for a token to the school’s book vending machine. Students who hit a goal and fill the board several times could earn a prize for the whole school.

Previous rewards have included an organized field day to play outside and enjoy game stations.

Burchfield said the board has been filled consistently, showing the children 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.