SchoolSeed Celebrates Four Years of Empowering Students at Levi Elementary and Riverview K-8

Innovative incentive stores boost student engagement and transform school culture

For the past four years, SchoolSeed Foundation has been transforming student experiences through innovative student incentive stores at Levi Elementary School and Riverview K-8 in Memphis. This initiative has made significant strides in improving school culture, attendance, and student behavior by rewarding positive actions and achievements.

The student incentive stores allow students to earn points for good behavior, attendance, and academic accomplishments, which they can redeem for a variety of exciting items. From school supplies and books to bicycles and other popular merchandise that resonate with young people, the stores offer incentives that genuinely motivate students. This system not only encourages positive behavior but also teaches the value of hard work and responsibility.

"For the past four years, we've seen incredible growth and enthusiasm among  students," said Vincent J. McCaskill, President and CEO of SchoolSeed. "At SchoolSeed, we are committed to creating opportunities that inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential. By offering rewards like bikes and items that students truly desire, we're able to significantly boost their enthusiasm for learning and personal development. Valero Memphis, a major donor to SchoolSeed, has been instrumental in supporting our efforts at these two schools by providing the tangible incentives that make a real difference in students' lives."

Principal Dr. Nekia S. Patton of Levi Elementary has observed a significant positive shift in her school's environment since the introduction of the incentive store.
"The incentive store has been a game-changer for our school culture," Dr. Patton shared. "Our students are more motivated, attendance has improved, and there is a noticeable decrease in behavioral issues. The excitement of earning rewards like bikes and other popular items has created a positive buzz throughout the school. It's heartening to see students taking pride in their accomplishments and striving to do their best every day."

Similarly, Principal Rasheedah Cooperwood Jemison of Riverview K-8 has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the incentive store on her students.
"Since introducing the incentive store stocked with items that our students are excited about, we've seen a noticeable improvement in our school's atmosphere," she shared. "The possibility of earning a bike or other coveted items has students more engaged and eager to participate positively in school activities. Over these four years, attendance has improved, behavioral issues have decreased significantly, and academics, as measured by formative and summative assessments such as TCAP, have improved as well. It's amazing to see how such incentives can drive positive change."

The incentive stores have become a cornerstone of both schools' strategies to foster positive and nurturing learning environments.

The sustained success of the incentive stores at these schools highlights the potential of collaborative efforts between SchoolSeed and its supporters to address challenges in other schools. "This initiative serves as a model for how businesses and organizations can come together to support our schools," McCaskill added. "By offering merchandise that resonates with the students, we're not just rewarding them—we're inspiring them. We're hopeful that this will continue to inspire similar initiatives that benefit students across the city."

Valero Memphis, a major donor, continues to support SchoolSeed’s efforts, demonstrating the power of community partnerships in driving educational success.