Godwin Middle students STRIVE to stay out of trouble

Nine students at Godwin Middle School are enjoying free passes to their favorite movies and all they had to do was follow the rules. As part of the school’s new STRIVE incentive plan, students who avoid discipline referrals are being rewarded with gift cards and other prizes.

“Students enjoy receiving incentives for positive behavior,” says Principal William Reid, III about the STRIVE program. “Many students curb what would be inappropriate behavior with hopes of receiving various incentives.”

STRIVE, created as part of the state initiative Effective Schoolwide Discipline Program, is an incentive program that recognizes students who make the right choices when it comes to proper behavior at school. “The program provides solutions and diverse approaches to encouraging positive behavior in students,” says Reid.

Students are encouraged by teachers and staff to get to class on time and be respectful to all property and each other. Students who do not receive a discipline referral during the month get a chance to win a special prize based on the current theme.

Movie Madness was the theme for March, and well-behaved students won AMC Entertainment and Blockbuster gift cards. The school’s mascot, Gary the Governor, even stopped by to have his picture taken with each of the winners.

“Today’s youth do not buy into delayed gratification,” says Reid. “Consequently, receiving incentives for positive behavior has given students the opportunity to set goals for themselves and then place themselves in contention for rewards.”

This June, forty-five students will reap the rewards of good behavior as the STRIVE program offers more prizes for excellent conduct. Additionally, staff at Godwin Middle School are planning a special celebration for all students who do not receive a discipline referral for the entire second semester of the school year.

Visit Godwin Middle School’s Web site.

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