Reaching New Levels: A New Behavior Support System Engages Students
This fall, high school students at Chapel Hill Academy were introduced to a new incentive system, allowing them to earn privileges and access to special events.
The new system works with the current BASE system. Based on the number of points they earn each week, students receive credits in their “account.”
Through the new “levels” system, students earn credits they can use to purchase access to food, trips to local restaurants, recreational trips like bowling and billiards, and even the option to eat lunch in the homeroom, where there is a quiet, comfortable social setting. The total number of credits earned for the year is also tracked. At certain intervals, new status levels are achieved. These levels may include privileges that do not need to be purchased. “By far the most popular privilege comes with earning Gold status, unlocking music and gaming sites for their Chromebooks,” added Somers. The new system affords students increased chances for social interactions, including an upcoming trip to historic Asbury Park.
“The new system of levels has our students more engaged and involved in earning their points on a daily basis,” added Mr. Somers, who has been with the school for 15 years. “They often ask about the number of points they need to earn their next credit or how close they are to earning an upgraded status. They are also very involved in selecting new privileges they would like to earn,” he concluded.
