Research that supports the efficacy of reward-based programs

---

 Report Contributing Authors: Angelica Herrera, PhD (TXCC), CoCo Massengale (TXCC), Grace Fleming

(TXCC), and Lisa Gonzales (TEA)

Introduction:

• The study examines the impact of rewards and motivation on student achievement across several schools in Texas.

Study Framework:

• Based on the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) theory of action for improving low-performing schools.
• Focused on seven critical success factors (CSFs) including academic performance, data-driven instruction, leadership effectiveness, increased learning time, family and community engagement, school climate, and teacher quality.

Critical Success Factors (CSFs):

• Academic Performance:
  • Implementation of school-wide instructional strategies.
  • Maintenance of high expectations and standards for student performance.
• Use of Quality Data to Drive Instruction:
  • Frequent and systematic use of data to inform instructional practices.
  • Collaborative environment for data analysis and application.
• Leadership Effectiveness:
  • Principals with a clear vision and effective communication.
  • Distributed leadership responsibilities among staff.
• Increased Learning Time:
  • Modified schedules to ensure uninterrupted blocks of core instruction.
  • Extended learning opportunities beyond the school day, including after-school and Saturday programs.
• Family and Community Engagement:
  • Multiple communication channels with families.
  • Strong community partnerships to support student learning.
• School Climate:
  • Positive relationships between students and staff.
  • High behavioral expectations and structured mentorship programs.
• Teacher Quality:
  • Hiring passionate and committed teachers.
  • Ongoing professional development tailored to staff needs.

Key Findings:

• Schools with effective reward and motivation strategies showed significant improvements in student academic performance and engagement.
• Positive school climate and strong leadership were crucial in achieving high performance.
• Data-driven instruction and extended learning time contributed to better student outcomes.
• Family and community engagement played a vital role in supporting student achievement.

Conclusion:

• Reward-based programs and motivational strategies are effective tools for enhancing student achievement.
• A holistic approach that includes strong leadership, effective use of data, positive school climate, and community engagement is essential for sustained academic success.

Bradley M. Allan EdLabs

Roland G. Fryer, Jr. Harvard University, EdLabs

Introduction:

• The Hamilton Project focuses on innovative ideas to promote broad-based economic growth, emphasizing education as a critical factor in economic mobility and long-term growth.

Key Findings:

• Education as Economic Driver:
  • Investment in education is crucial for improving economic mobility and fostering a stronger economy.
• Skill Development:
  • Highlights the importance of developing both cognitive and non-cognitive skills in students to enhance their future opportunities.
• Disparities in Education:
  • Significant disparities in educational outcomes are noted based on socio-economic status, requiring targeted interventions.

Recommendations:

• Early Childhood Education:
  • Increased access to high-quality early childhood education programs is essential to close the achievement gap from an early age.
• K-12 Reforms:
  • Suggests reforms in K-12 education to improve student performance and better prepare them for higher education and the workforce.
• Higher Education Access:
  • Policies to increase access to higher education, particularly for low-income students, through financial aid and support programs are recommended.
• Workforce Training:
  • Encourages investment in workforce training programs to equip workers with the skills needed in a changing economy.

Policy Proposals:

• Performance-Based Scholarships:
  • Proposes scholarships that reward students for academic performance and progress, incentivizing excellence.
• Teacher Quality:
  • Suggests policies to attract and retain high-quality teachers through competitive salaries, professional development, and career advancement opportunities.
• School Accountability:
  • Recommends accountability systems that measure school performance and hold schools accountable for student outcomes.
• Parental Engagement:
  • Highlights the importance of parental involvement in children's education and proposes programs to support and encourage parental engagement.

Conclusion:

• The discussion paper underscores the critical role of education in economic growth and mobility.
• Advocates for comprehensive educational reforms and investments to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the economy.