Recognition and Rewards

Celebrating Positive Choices

We believe students should be recognized not only for what they achieve, but also for how they grow, learn, and contribute to our school community. Positive reinforcement is a key part of our PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) approach, and it’s one of the most powerful ways we help students build strong character, confidence, and motivation. When children know their positive choices are noticed and valued, they are more likely to repeat them. That’s why we intentionally recognize and celebrate students for demonstrating the 4 BE’s: Being Prepared, Being Respectful, Being Responsible, and Being Safe, in all parts of their school day.

Why Recognition Matters

Recognition does more than make students feel good. It helps them:

• Build intrinsic motivation by connecting effort with outcomes.

• Strengthen their sense of belonging and community.

• Understand that their actions have a positive impact on others.

• See behavior as a skill that can be practiced and improved,  just like reading or math.

By celebrating everyday successes, we create a culture where kindness, responsibility, respect, and perseverance are noticed, valued, and repeated.
 

PBIS Saber Saver Rewards System

The Saber Saver system is our most visible way to celebrate positive behavior. Students earn Saber Saver tickets when teachers or staff notice them demonstrating the 4 BE’s, whether they’re working hard in class, showing kindness, or helping others.

Tickets can be saved and redeemed at the Saber Saver student store for school supplies, small prizes, or special privileges, helping students set goals and experience the satisfaction of earning rewards through positive choices. Every PBIS Saber Saver a student earns is also placed into a container in the front office, giving every Silver Oak student a chance to win a year end activity.

Student of the Month Recognition

During our Student of the Month recognition, one student from each class is honored monthly for exemplifying our trimester focus Habits of the Mind, the values of the 4 BE’s, and modeling positive behavior for their peers. This recognition highlights not just what students do, but who they are becoming: thoughtful, respectful, responsible individuals who contribute to our school culture.
 

Everyday Encouragement

In addition to Saber Savers and monthly awards, Silver Oak staff recognize positive behavior in many small ways every day. You might hear about:

• Verbal praise from teachers and staff.

• Classroom shout-outs and celebrations.

• Principal acknowledgments during announcements.

• Notes or messages sent home to share student successes.

These daily gestures build confidence, strengthen the home-school connection, and show students that their growth is noticed.
 

How Families Can Support Recognition

Families play a key role in reinforcing positive behavior. You can support our recognition systems by:

• Talking with your child about the 4 BE’s and why they matter.

• Asking how they earned a Saber Saver or why they were recognized.

• Praising their effort and character, not just the reward.

• Encouraging them to set goals for how they want to contribute to their classroom or school community.

Together, we can build a culture where positive behavior is celebrated and every student feels proud of the difference they make.