Trophies, whether they are awarded for academic, athletic, or other reasons, have the ability to encourage and motivate the recipients to aspire to learn more, do more, and be more. For schools in particular, award ceremonies during which trophies and even medals and ribbons are handed out is, without a doubt, probably the most looked-forward-to ceremonies of the school year.

If you’re wondering how you can motivate your students to set higher goals, and then work hard to achieve them, consider what you can give recognition for:

• good grades
• high test scores
• significant improvements
• perfect attendance
• sports-related team wins
• community service

Use trophies to recognize first and perhaps second place winners, and medals and/or ribbons for third and fourth place, as well as honorary mentions.