Bribery

I was about at my wits end at the start of "Annual Reviews Round 1". This is because I was plagued by:
a) Students who would not take paperwork to their parents, despite begging, pleading, and multiple entries in their agenda.
b) Parents who would not return the paperwork.
c) Parents who would not return my calls.
So annoying. Annoying, annoying, annoying.


For "Annual Reviews Round 2" I took a different approach:
1. I mailed notices and corresponding paperwork home directly to parents. Not sure that my school appreciated the $2 per envelope price tag, but if it works, it works!
2. I included a pre-labeled envelope in which they could returned signed paperwork.
3. I included a "'Speech Buck' entitling your child to one free prize from the treasure box when signed paperwork is returned to Mrs. Gregory."
4. I baited my kids with, "I'm getting NEW PRIZES for the treasure box this weekend! If you return the envelope from your parents, you get first pick!"


So, did it work? Well, I'm not totally sure yet, but this is day 2 of being back in school since I mailed the notices out before the weekend, and I have already received half of them back! They aren't even due until the 21st, so that's even more awesome! Also what's awesome, is my kiddos proud faces when they come in waving their "Speech Buck". Now, if I could get them to be this enthusiastic about returning homework......Perhaps another challenge for another year.