At the Bennington Public Schools Foundation, some of our most meaningful work happens when we get to connect a great idea with a generous community partner. The new Badger Incentive Program is a perfect example of that collaboration in action.
How It Started
Earlier this year, Bennington High School Assistant Principal Jerry Kalina shared an idea with us: he wanted a way to support at-risk students at Bennington High School by recognizing the small but important steps they make toward success. Whether it’s showing up on time, improving grades, or demonstrating a positive attitude, he knew that sometimes a simple gesture can mean a lot.
The plan was straightforward: reward students with a small gift card as a quiet acknowledgment of their effort and growth. Not a big production—just a personal, encouraging moment that lets students know their progress matters.
Making a Community Connection
Knowing that Chick-fil-A has been a strong partner in our community, we reached out to their 156th & Maple location to see if they would be interested in supporting the launch of the program. Their response was immediate and generous: they donated 100 meal cards to get the program started.
Now, high school administrators have a tangible way to recognize students—offering encouragement without singling anyone out. It’s a simple but powerful tool for building confidence and motivation.
Early Impact
The program has only just begun, but the impact is already clear. Recently, a Bennington High School senior was recognized for the effort they had been putting into their academics and attendance. When they received their Chick-fil-A meal card, their reaction said it all. Their smile lit up the room, and it was clear the gesture meant much more than the gift itself.
As Mr. Kalina shared with us afterward:
“These simple, quiet moments of student success are exactly what we were hoping for when we started the Badger Incentive Program. With the help of the Foundation and our community partners, we were able to make this moment happen—and it was really cool to see.”
This program illustrates our vision in action – bridging financial and resource gaps so all students are supported – by being the connector between schools and community partners. Great ideas like the Badger Incentive Program can take flight when our schools know they have the support of the BPS Foundation to seek out these partnerships. Together, we can continue creating moments of encouragement that help students believe in themselves and their potential.
If you or your business would like to help us impact students in unique ways like this and more, email Executive Director Blake Thompson at bthompson@bennps.org or call 531.329.3710.
