Chicago Public Schools

Earn an A? Here's $50.

I do not think this is a smart idea. Intrinsic motivation is essential to successful learning by the students. This program does the exact opposite by motivating students extrinsically. So instead of the student learning to learn, they are learning to earn. How much of this will they really care to remember after the test? And honestly, do we need anymore testing in schools? Jobs today do not include bubbled in standardized tests or an extra bonus for every great achievement and especially not for an average performance (like getting a “C”). My position is the same as a parent, teacher, and taxpayer. As a parent I don’t want someone else paying my child for their grades. I will reward my child to the best of my ability and in the way I see fit. And as a taxpayer I would much rather see the money go towards better teacher training, facilities, and technology in the classrooms.

http://www.wbbm780.com/pages/2948980.php?

This article contains limited information. Yet it includes the statement that many wealthier parents have been doing it for decades. Since when does that mean it’s a good idea?

http://www.myfoxchicago.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=7413415&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=3.8.1

The woman at the end of this video says that schools should be concentrated on better teachers and resources than a monetary incentive for students. That is exactly how I feel about this.

Jacqueline's Blog

I agree with Jacqueline's comments, especially about getting back to intrinsic motivation as I previously stated. I really like how she mentioned that if these students are motivated only by money and enter the workforce with that mindset they will soon become unhappy. I think this is a really good point because success is not defined by how much money you make but how happy you are, that's my opinion anyway.

Loren Steffey's Blog
This man has done his research! He points out that not only does this overemphasize testing but paying students may help increase funding in schools that are struggling with the NCLB. And again, as a taxpayer, I would like to see the money spent on resources and facilities not just some extra cash for the students.