I think they should be recognized for good things. A group of parents who sat down for an interview with the Tribune said their problem is not with the school or even with the basis of the character education program, but with the methods of recognition. I think everyone we talk to really does not disagree with the 'what' of this program. For this story, Carla Osberg, Longfellow principal, referred all questions to district administration. Items such as completing homework on time, following directions, being kind to others and using appropriate language are among expectation guidelines.
Rewards vary each month.
Examples have been being able to chew gum, unassigned seating in the lunchroom, lunch with a teacher or being able to use the telephone and restroom with teacher permission rather than a written pass. Students can wear a badge with a paw print on it, identifying them for those privileges. Not everyone will be recognized, Kautz said. The problem, of course, is that some kids aren't going to make it during a certain time period. That month they won't be provided with the rewards.