10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

Subscribe via Email

Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020
Celebrate hard work with your students during distance and virtual learning using these free and low-cost reward ideas!

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

Subscribe via Email

Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

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Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

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Subscribe via Email

Receive the best school culture resources monthly to inspire your planning.

10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020

About the Event

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

Register Now

About the Event

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

About the Presenter

You know what they teamwork makes the dream work. These articles have been written by the wonderful members of our team.

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10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020

Celebrate hard work with your students during distance and virtual learning using these free and low-cost reward ideas!

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Classroom Carousel
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Pen
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Talk Time
Grades 6-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Screening
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Technology
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Old School Cookout
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Seat Swap
Grades 3-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Field Trip
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Game Week
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Silent Disco
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Principal for a Day
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Firebird of the Month
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
STEM Field Day
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Serenade
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Passing Period Music
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Board Game Party
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Snack Pack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
School Supplies & Merch
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Pie a Teacher
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Drop Lowest Quiz
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Spotlight Board
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Hallway High-Five
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Reservations
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Extra Recess
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Screening
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
The Big Ticket
🎉
👑
🎁
Show & Tell
🎉
👑
🎁
Game of Thrones
🎉
👑
🎁
House Induction
🎉
👑
🎁
Operate Equipment.
🎉
👑
🎁
Parking Spots
🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Book
🎉
👑
🎁
Stairway Messages
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
🎉
👑
🎁
Art Contest
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Jobs

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Movie Night
Grades 9-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Game-Based Simulation Learning
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Emcee the Announcements
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Rolling Chair Rental
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Game Week
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Reservations
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Music Fest
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Delivery
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
The Big Ticket
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Digital Escape Rooms
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
The Love Soiree
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Special Screening
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holidays Around the World
Grades K-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Graduation Celebration
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Snack Pack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Water Bottle Stickers
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Silent Disco
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Read Across America
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Seating Choice
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Glow Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
The A-List
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Be a Comedian.
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Pen Pouch
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Class Book
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Be a Comedian.
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Game of Thrones
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Seating Choice
Grades K-12
Student
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10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning

Make distance learning motivating for your students with virtual rewards and incentives!
By 
The Liveschool Team
 | 
May 12, 2020

Celebrate hard work with your students during distance and virtual learning using these free and low-cost reward ideas!

Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it’s a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn’t changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can’t change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students’ hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That’s still true today.

Let’s look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost – the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

1. Host a Virtual Party 🎶

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

  • Invite students to wear school or House colors
  • Sing your school song or House chants
  • Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders
  • Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what’s popular!)

Remember – short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

  • Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.
  • Learn about how students are spending their time – favorite music, video games, or hobbies.
  • Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.
  • Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

3. In-Person Party 🚗

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of “drive by” birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

  • Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students’ homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.
  • Have a distanced visit to a student’s home to create some personal connection.
  • If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can’t deny it – video games are part of our students’ lives. Many video games have “bucks” that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

  • Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.
  • Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.
  • Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.
  • When it’s time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward – here are just a few ideas:

  • An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.
  • Emcee your virtual party.
  • Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

9. Virtual Talent Show 🎤

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like…

  • Sing their favorite song.
  • Perform a dance.
  • Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there’s something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we’ve seen:

  • Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.
  • Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut – live!
  • Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

  • Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.
  • Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.
  • One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices 

In LiveSchool, you can…

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you – how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

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Want more ideas?

Rewards that Rock 🎸 has 100+ rewards, incentives, and event ideas to build your school culture.
Find Rewards
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The Liveschool Team
 

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