"There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination, and finish with education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning." -Jiddu Krishnamurti

Memorial Day today, then graduation. From Mother's Day to religious holidays, the Kentucky Derby and Indy 500, spring often keeps me focused on celebrations and rites of passage. This year, though, I've brought that perspective to my daily routine, as it relates to students. Yes, graduation is the goal, but what are we doing to encourage and celebrate our students' daily and weekly achievements? Here are six ideas to use as a starting point.

1. Give specific, individual feedback. The words "great job" only tell the student that you liked their work or that they scored well. "What" made the job great? Be specific in your feedback, both verbally and in writing.
2. Communicate unplanned positive reports to the student's parents or guardians. Too often, they only see the scheduled grade reports, notes about absences, or emails about academic/behavior difficulties. Even the smallest postcard or email home elevates a positive message into a joyous occasion.
3. Recognize the difference between an incentive and a celebration. If we announce that we will have a pizza party once everyone passes a test, then the party is a reward. If, on the other hand, we don't make an announcement, and then have the party, letting the students know that they did a great job and that everyone passed the test, that is a celebration.
4. Establish little celebratory rites of passage. For example, in some AdvancePath Academies, every time a student graduates, the alumnus-to-be dons graduation robes and rings a school-bell. Students anticipate this rite of passage, this moment that sets them apart, and we mark the moment as special to the individual.
5. Inspire reciprocal peer pride. Students in blended classes are often working at varying levels or on different projects. Lead them in writing notes of encouragement and celebration to their fellow classmates. I like to have a student write a specific strength that they saw in another student and when they saw that strength. Then, share their thoughts in an envelope.
6. Publicize student success. This might be a “Brag Board” where the students post how they met their goal to pass the next quadratic equation quiz with a 90% or better. Display their progress charts and writing assignments. Create a booklet of student work.

Today’s Challenge:

Think about your daily and weekly interactions with your students. In what ways can you give them that boost of recognition? Plan one class-wide or program-wide celebratory action that you will put in place before the start of summer.