Florida High is no stranger to rewarding students, uplifting the campus and offering incentives like ice cream, pizza parties and now the most infamous: badge trips. These trips are beloved schoolwide, but they raise a crucial question: do these trips actually reinforce good behavior among students?
Students around campus are excited about the upcoming badge trips, scheduled for Dec. 9-10. Many believe that being rewarded for doing well in class has boosted their determination to excel.
“I find them motivating,” sophomore Kathleen Hutchison said. “ Especially after I didn’t think I did so well, and I see I received one, it makes me feel really proud and want to do better.”
Teachers and deans around campus have also noticed this effect, observing students putting in their best effort for the possibility of earning a badge.
“I think that trips do have some part in the increase of positive behavior, and another component is the recognition,” Dean of Discipline Kevin Helms said. “They appreciate the [praise] from their parents and teachers when they get a badge. The trip lets them know they’re doing well and encourages them.”
The imminent enthusiasm amongst peers is clear, and students are eager to propose more ideas for future incentives.
“I would like to go to Skate World one day,” freshman Saleh Abd El Hadi said. “Maybe we could even go to Wild Adventures [if we have enough money] in the future.”
“I think going to Urban Air would be a fun local option for us as well,” freshman Makayla McGriff said.
While some favor the small monetary rewards, others would also prefer treats right on our school campus.
“I feel like some other options are having a pizza party or even [receiving] homework passes. Those would also be good rewards for students doing well at school,” freshman Olivia Traft said.
As this badge program continues, educators will have the opportunity to assess its long-term impact on student motivation and academic achievement, witnessing our campus turn into a world of positivity.
