Video: Columbus Students ‘Caught In The Act’

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) — Normally getting caught in the act is not a good thing, but now some local students could be rewarded for getting caught. It’s a new Columbus schools program.

Summer Rascoll talks with administrators and students today, and she joins us live in the studio with this “Caught in the Act” program.

Columbus Schools say they want students with good character, who can go against the grain of bullying that’s so common now-a-days. Educators believe those are traits they can live with outside of the classroom and after graduation. Students walking the halls of a Columbus school could soon earn digital dollars to buy prizes–rewards for good behavior.

“They can see what teacher has added money into their bank account and why that teacher added the money to their bank account,” said Columbus School Superintendent, Dr. Phillip Hickman.

The reward program is called “Caught in the Act.” Teachers hope it encourages students to be on their best behavior, using 4 pillars or the 4 R’s.

Hickman said, “One of the R’s is respect.  So not only are you being respectful for yourself , and others and property, these kinds of things. The other is responsibility, so you’re responsible for your behavior.”

The other two R’s resourcefulness and response helps students use their tools for success and respond well to discipline or new challenges.

Robert Woodard caught his teacher’s attention, after she left the classroom. When she stepped out, Robert stepped up.

“We had a test the next day, and I know with Miss Ming that we would really have the test no matter what happens,” said Woodard

So he started teaching the class , going over the notes for the test.

Woodard says wanting to be a leader drives him to help in the class and on the basketball court. He hopes “Caught in the Act” will encourage others to do the same:

“It gives people the chance to want to do better for their classmates and their peers around them.”

Students can earn prizes ranging from school gear to lunch with a friend. The program helps students become leaders and helps teachers teach a life long lesson, hard work really does pay off.

Hickman hopes local stores and restaurants will donate to the cause, with gift cards. Each month one student will be selected as a “Caught in the Act” award winner.