Pass & Play: Summer Reward Program Enters its 5th Year
Go to school and get good grades. It’s a common refrain students are likely going to hear from teachers and parents alike. And in Des Moines Public Schools, when students heed that good advice, there’s a reward each summer.
In 2008, thanks to the effort of School Board member Connie Boesen, the school district created Pass & Play, an annual incentive program to reward high school students who have good grades and attend school regularly.
“This has been a great program to recognize students who work hard during the school year so they can enjoy some fun in the summer,” said Connie Boesen. “And it’s possible thanks to terrific sponsors and partners throughout the community.”
Last year, more than 3,200 high school students qualified to receive Pass & Play coupons. This year, the program will also be open to 8th graders.
To qualify, high school students must have at least a 2.5 GPA and 8th grade students must have no Ds or Fs on their report cards. In addition, all students must have missed fewer than 10 days of school during the year.
Students who qualify receive a coupon booklet to Des Moines attractions, restaurants and entertainment facilities, including:
- Adventureland
- Blank Mini Golf
- Blank Park Zoo
- City of Des Moines swimming pools
- Des Moines Botanical Center
- Drake Diner
- Iowa Cubs
- Plaza Lanes
- Sleepy Hollow Sports Park.
In addition, Polk County has provided funds each year to print posters and coupon booklets. Last year, over 3,200 high school students qualified to receive the Pass & Play coupons.
Good work should be rewarded, and Pass & Play does this by providing students the chance to have fun in Des Moines this summer at a little or no cost.
