Bush Elementary School fourth grader, Payton Gibbs, enjoys a sledding reward as part of the school’s “shoutouts” for good behavior.

Sledding and hot cocoa in the winter, pies in the face, slime for staff, and visiting with the Jamestown Police Department’s comfort dog, Hope, are just some of the innovative experiences Bush Elementary School students can have if they follow the school’s pledge of: “Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Peaceful.” In the past, the Bush Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) Committee has conducted Bush Bonanza Days where students completed fun activities as a grade level in their classrooms. Due to COVID, the committee decided to come up with a way to make it safe, and also include their virtual learners. This year, any adult in the school can “shout out” an in-person or virtual student, or group of students, for exemplifying positive character traits such as: working through a frustrating moment, improving attendance or helping out a fellow student.

“We want students to understand that the school year may look different, but the expectations and consistency of behavior we are looking for are the same, whether you are in the classroom or in your bedroom. We still have rules and as a Bush School family we will work together for a successful school year,” said Bush School Counselor Alexandria Peterson. “Part of what has been nice about the incentive events, like the sliming, is that the kids ‘attend’ virtually and that allows the families to be involved too.”

Each time a student or a group receives a “shout out” their “piece of popcorn” is added to the “popcorn machine” on the wall near the main entrance. The first grade level to get to the top receives the incentive. The kids love it.

“We get rewards because we were good,” said Bush fourth grader Angelina Oyer. “I got one because I came to my math Zoom class every day and on time. I loved going sledding because it was fun and I got a hot cocoa mix with a peppermint stick to stir into my drink.”

“Mrs. Cieslewicz got a pie in her face for my treat,” said Bush first grader Kadence Keeler. ” She looked like Olaf when it was done! It was so fun.”