Lewes Elementary launches LIFT loot positive behavior currency

With the start of this school year, Lewes Elementary launched “LIFT Loot,” a currency that students can earn each month, and then turn in for special prizes and rewards.

LIFT Loot is part of the Positive Behavior Support system programming at Lewes Elementary School. PBS systems in general help to promote a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment. Using these types of initiatives teaches and reinforces positive behaviors such as respect, responsibility, safety and kindness, while recognizing students who demonstrate these expectations. By focusing on encouragement and consistent support, a PBS system helps students make responsible choices, improves school culture, and supports academic and social success.

Lewes Elementary developed LIFT Loot after reviewing data collected last school year, which revealed that some students needed extra attention and assistance in non-academic settings. Since the program began, students are mainly earning LIFT Loot during lunch, recess and related arts. LIFT is an acronym for Learn, Inspire, Focus and Try: Learn something new, inspire others with kindness, focus on doing your best, and try even when it’s hard. When students are caught showing a quality from the LIFT acronym, they’re rewarded with a LIFT Loot coupon. At the end of each month, students can redeem their coupons.

“We are excited to launch LIFT Loot this year at Lewes Elementary,” said Assistant Principal Alfredo Rodriguez. “This program was created as a way to celebrate our students and recognize their hard work, kindness and determination.”

Rodriguez visited each of the grade levels in school with his cart Sept. 26, when students could spend 1, 5, 10, or 20 coupons for a variety of prizes or rewards. Baskets of prizes include everything from stickers to Beanie Babies. He also provided students with options from a rewards menu that includes things like a positive home contact by the principal or assistant principal, or  a student selecting a staff member whom they want to help during the school day. Students who earn 20 LIFT Loot coupons also earn a certificate and have their photo posted on the LIFT Leader Wall.

“We also gave students the opportunity to not spend their loot,” said Rodriguez. “If students wanted to hold on to their coupons and continue earning through the month of October, they had that as an option as well. Eventually they’ll be able to cash in more loot for a bigger or more meaningful prize.”