5 Star Reward System

The 5 Star system is given to students as a way to reinforce positive behavior. Stars can be given in the classroom or any other school location to all students demonstrating expected behaviors.

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How the 5 Star System Works

Step 1: Recognition

Staff members give 5 Star cards to students when they observe them:

  • Being Respectful
  • Making Good Choices
  • Solving Problems

Staff should provide specific behavior praise when giving a 5 Star card.

Step 2: Collection

Students collect their 5 Star cards and can use them in several ways:

  • Enter weekly classroom raffles
  • Save for classroom rewards
  • Enter school-wide drawings
  • Trade for items at the school store

Teachers should establish a system for collecting and storing cards.

Step 3: Rewards

Students can redeem their 5 Star cards for various rewards:

  • Individual rewards
  • Class rewards
  • Grade-level celebrations
  • School-wide events

The school maintains a variety of free and low-cost reward options.

Behavior Specific Praise

When giving a 5 Star card, pair it with specific praise that identifies the positive behavior:

Effective Examples:

  • "Thank you for holding the door open for your classmates. That shows respect for others."
  • "I noticed you picked up trash that wasn't yours. That's making a good choice to keep our school clean."
  • "I appreciate how you helped resolve that conflict by using your words. That's great problem-solving."
  • "You waited patiently in line without pushing. That shows respect for personal space."

Less Effective Examples:

  • "Good job."
  • "Thanks for being good."
  • "You're a great student."
  • "Keep up the good work."

These examples don't identify the specific positive behavior being recognized.

Raffle Prizes

Here are some free prizes that you can use as part of your class raffle:

Individual Rewards
  • Homework pass
  • Line leader for the day
  • Lunch with a teacher
  • Choose class music
  • Sit in special seat
  • Be a teacher's helper
  • Extra computer time
  • Read to a younger class
  • Positive note home
Class Rewards
  • Extra recess time
  • Class game time
  • Movie with popcorn
  • Pajama day
  • Hat day
  • Class outdoors
  • Dance party
  • Art activity
  • Class choice activity
School-Wide Rewards
  • School spirit day
  • Extended lunch period
  • School-wide celebration
  • Special assembly
  • Field day activities
  • School dance
  • Principal challenge
  • School-wide game
  • Recognition ceremony