Hey gang, Stand Tall Steve here. Let’s be real for a minute. Educators want fresh ideas that work. Too often, we sit around in the staff lounge or in a team meeting brainstorming recognition activities, and the ideas end up feeling forced, stale, or just plain cheesy. Students pick up on that quickly. If the recognition does not hit, then it does not matter.

That is why I want to share ten recognition ideas that feel authentic, build positive energy, and have a profound impact on creating a culture students actually want to be part of. These ideas can work in elementary, middle, or high school. They do not require a huge budget, and they focus on recognition that feels meaningful, not manufactured.

10. Opportunity Over Object

Forget about trinkets and dollar store prizes.  Students value opportunities more than objects. At the middle school level, personal time in a reading nook or extra phone minutes at the end of class. At the high school level, it could be front-row seats at the next big game, first in line at the cafeteria, or a discount on prom tickets. The beauty is that these cost little to nothing, yet students value them deeply.

9. Caught in the Act Cards

Think beyond the standard PBIS ticket system. Create shout-out cards that allow staff to recognize students for showing the values you respect. Quick shout-outs can be shared during announcements, in the cafeteria, or in the hallway. 

“Shout out to Marcus for helping another student.”
“Shout out to Jasmine for staying after school to decorate the bulletin board.” 

Recognition becomes part of the culture when students hear names called out for doing the right thing.

8. Shout Out Playlist

This one is fun. Create a playlist for recognized students. When a student earns recognition, they add a song to the school playlist. That song plays during class transitions, announcements, or lunchtime. It takes little effort to manage, and it fills the building with music that students choose themselves. Recognition literally becomes the soundtrack of your school culture. If you are stumped on where to start, check this out from Spotify.

https://open.spotify.com/album/2q5nhxyM2icNrbx4c2KyRp?si=JsvwW272RMCE8GBMUuPxgg 

7. Parent Phone Call Flip

Too often, families only hear from school when something goes wrong. Flip the script. Call parents to share good news. 

“Your son focused in class today and crushed that assignment.”
“Your daughter showed amazing leadership in group work.”

The parent leaves work smiling, the student goes home to a proud family, and everyone feels the impact. It is simple, free, and powerful.

6. Magic Lunch

Lunch with the principal may sound good on paper, but it can feel awkward. Spice it up. Invite a local magician, artist, or performer to join lunch with your recognized students. I brought in a magician once a month for our “Citizen of the Month” lunch, and it was unforgettable. Word spread fast, and students worked hard to earn the chance to attend. Sometimes recognition is about creating memories over tangible trinkets.

5. Bring the Outside In

Recognition hits differently when it comes from outside voices. Partner with local businesses, first responders, or community groups. Record short videos or grab quick quotes congratulating students. “Hey, this is Luigi from Luigi’s Pizza. Shout out to the robotics team for your big win.” When students see their community lifting them up, school pride skyrockets! Take lots of pictures to share.

4. Student-Created Awards

Why should adults decide every recognition category? Give students ownership by letting them design the awards. Categories like “Most Likely to Brighten Your Day” or “Best Hype Person in Gym” are fun, real, and student-centered. The most important part of this is to post the categories in advance so students know what to aim for, then let them vote. The authenticity makes these awards meaningful. You can even involve students in the award ceremony planning, allowing them to contribute to the recognition process.

3. Joke of the Day

I love this one. Each morning, close announcements with a student-submitted joke. I did this for years, and the groans, laughter, and “I don’t get it” moments created a light, fun atmosphere. Have a joke box outside the office or collect them in class. You can even get Joke of the Day tear-away calendars! Recognition happens naturally when a student hears their joke read to the whole school.
Why did the scarecrow win an award?
Because he was outstanding in his field.

What do you call fake spaghetti?
An impasta!

Why can’t your nose be 12 inches long?
Because then it would be a foot. 

2. Personalized Clap, Cheer, or Handshake

Recognition does not always need a certificate. Create a class or schoolwide cheer, clap, or handshake that celebrates students when they are recognized. At one of my schools, we had the “Hartford Howl.” When we recognized students, the entire group howled together. It was loud, fun, and unforgettable. Energy builds culture, and culture builds commitment for both students and staff.

1. The Wall

Simple, powerful, and always effective. Dedicate a wall in your school where the names of recognized students are posted. Honor roll, positive behavior, or leadership moments all deserve a spot. Students love seeing their names displayed for the whole community. The certificates go in a drawer, but the wall creates lasting pride and visibility.

There’s No Such Thing as Too Much Recognition 

The point of recognition is not about cheesy gimmicks. It is about showing students that what they do matters. These ten ideas offer practical, meaningful, and flexible options. Try one, tweak another, and let them spark more ideas in your school. Remember, culture and climate grow stronger when recognition feels real. Keep it positive, keep it fun, and of course, keep Standing Tall.

Just Do This… Boost Camp

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter

December 2 - 4, 2025

In conjunction with AccuTrain's December 2025 Innovative Schools Summit

I am excited to share that the Just Do This Boot Camp is coming to San Antonio this December. This three-day experience is designed for schools, teams, classroom teachers, educators, and administrators who want to strengthen their culture and climate. During this Boot Camp, I will guide you through practical strategies and powerful ideas that you can implement immediately to elevate your school culture to the next level. If you are concerned about the direction of your culture and climate and understand the critical importance of achieving the outcomes you want, then this is the opportunity you need. Together, we will focus on what works, build momentum, and create a school environment that inspires success for both staff and students. Save your spot! https://www.standtallsteve.com/just-do-this-boostcamp 

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