The First Day Back

The first day of school was packed full of welcomes, PBIS expectations, and a return to my high school computer science class. I am so excited to be back in this role and to see the energy students are bringing into the year.
One of the changes I made this year was to try a new classroom management system. While we are a PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) school, I have always struggled to find a system that feels truly age appropriate for high school students. A couple of years ago, I had a student go on multiple rants about how high school was pointless and how they just wanted to get straight to the workforce. I explained that high school is not only about academic knowledge, but also about learning the skills needed to thrive in the workplace such as respect, responsibility, accountability, and resourcefulness.
That conversation stuck with me. Over the summer I stumbled across something called Class Bank, and I decided to give it a try. This tool allows me to “pay” students for doing their jobs in class. They pay rent on their equipment, can be fined for negative behavior, earn bonuses for positive choices, and save money for prizes in our classroom store.
On the very first day, we walked through their pay schedule and bills. I also explained that students would need to pay a small fee to leave the classroom during instructional time. Twice during class, students asked to go to their lockers or get water. When they found out what it would cost them, they both decided they did not want to go into debt and that those trips were not as necessary as they thought. This led to a great conversation about being prepared during passing periods and making choices in classes that do not “charge” for leaving.
Students were especially excited to help outline potential items for the classroom store. Most of their suggestions were priced high, between $500 and $1,000, and included things like pizza parties, movie days, and even a “skip an assignment” pass. Because a large portion of their income goes back into bills, students also have the option to take on “odd jobs” for extra pay and earn bonuses for going above and beyond.
It was just the first day, but the response from students was enthusiastic, and I am thrilled to see their excitement. I am grateful to have found a tool that not only motivates them but also connects back to the life and workplace skills that matter beyond high school.
Here’s to a great year ahead!