The requested items would be used as incentives for an identified group of at-risk 9th and 10th grade students. These students exhibit poor behaviors and attendance. The devastation of a recent F5 tornado may have increased the risk that they won't complete their high school education.
About 150 ninth and tenth grade students were identified as the most at-risk to drop out of school.
They struggle with behaviors, attendance, and grades. Many need extra help in reading, writing, and math. Many of them do not like school or see the value of an education. Some are waiting until they turn 17 so they can drop out. The odds against them may have increased because of a recent F5 tornado. Several of them have lost their homes and all their possessions. Some of their parents have lost their places of employment. Some of their friends have been forced to move away. Their school has been destroyed and they are forced to finish their high school educations in makeshift facilities.
My Project
Our school is developing learning centers to provide more intensive reading and math instruction. We also plan to provide case management for these identified students. Our teaching staff will develop close, personal relationships with each student and track their attendance, behaviors, and grades. Teaching staff will meet frequently to discuss student needs and develop interventions to meet those needs. We plan to challenge our students to improve their behaviors and celebrate each success with them. We would like to reward improvements with school supplies and snack items. We also plan to have quarterly drawings for larger items.
It is our belief that providing a more supportive environment will give these students a more positive high school experience while improving their academic skills.
Rewarding appropriate behavior while encouraging attendance and participation will help them develop a strong work ethic and increase their chances of graduating. The incentive program may be one small step towards keeping them motivated to stay in school.
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