My Opinions Story

Should Students Get Paid for Good Grades?

Some students are struggling in school today that may be procrastinating in their school work, have difficulty understanding a subject, or not having the determination to do their best in school. Parents and teachers encourage them to attend tutoring sessions or study extra hours, but many refuse to do so. They need something to motivate them.

There are also students who work very hard and spend many hours in their school work or by serving their community or school. In my opinion, these students should be rewarded. Therefore, I believe students should get paid for their good grades and hard work in school. It can help them financially and better prepare them for when they are completely independent living the adult life; paying the bills and more.

The Idea of paying for good grades has migrated from the family room to the school house. In states ranging from Texas to Massachusetts, a growing number of students are pocketing cold cash for good grades or test scores on Advanced Placement and SAT exams, typically through privately funded programs. 

According to a study by the social-policy research group MDRC, an organization known for evaluating state welfare, cash incentive combined with counseling offered "real hope" to low-income and nontraditional students at two Louisiana community colleges. This program paid picked a certain number of students. These students were received $1000 per semester if they enroll in college at least half-time in order to keep a "C" average.  

The students who were randomly selected were 30% more likely to register for a second semester than students who were not offered the supplemental financial aid. Not only were the students offered cash incentives, but many enrolled in more classes and passed, and also showed psychological benefits. This includes reporting more positive feelings about themselves and their abilities to accomplish their goal for the future. 

Although U.S. enrollment has increased, college completion rates have not. Only a third of students who enrolled in community colleges get a degree within six years. However, this study has shows the students who were given cash incentives for their good grades were more likely to finish college completely. 

However, on the other hand, many critics in higher education are concerned that cash incentives will encourage students to start taking easier courses to ensure they'll do well enough to pocket the money. However, those involved with the study note that cash incentives could help part-time students devote more hours to their studies.

I understand that many may be concerned that cash incentives are nothing more than bribery. However, I am not sure that I am opposed to bribing. If that is what we need to do for these people to reach these goals, which ultimately will lead to them have a better future, I wish the study had more money to give.

If all goes well, students will be getting cash incentives for their work soon after graduating. I believe most individuals would not show up to work if they were not being paid. Therefore, what is wrong with starting the payment a little early?

I believe the cash incentives will help students pay the bills for tuition, books and housing. It can also help students get by while searching or having a part-time job. Again these cash incentives is a small amount money to reward the student for their hard work and service to the university. As a result, this reward will motivate students to work even harder.