Should students be given food as a reward?

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Our wellness regulation (Board Policy EEE-R(1)) discourages the use of food, especially candy, as an individual reward for good behavior or academic performance.  Food rewards undermine children's diet and health while also potentially reinforcing unhealthful eating habits.  Ultimately, it is up to the classroom teacher and/or school administrator to determine whether use of food as a reward is an accpetable practice.

Because classroom rewards are an effective way to encourage positive behavior, we have developed a list of non-food reward alternatives to help parents, teachers, and school administrators wishing to move away from food-based rewards.

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