Local school celebrates second annual ‘Bear Day’

YOUNGSTOWN , Ohio (WKBN) — East High School held its second annual Bear Day, all part of an incentive to get kids more involved in their education.

Students earn Bear Bucks throughout the year for things like behavior, attendance and engagement in the classroom. They can cash them in at a carnival-like celebration at the end of the year. Students are able to spend it on games, food and other prices.

Venus Cataldo, a science teacher at East, created the event, and it’s taken off in just a short time.

“Honestly, it was based off my experience in High School; I thank my teachers for giving me that type of experience,” Cataldo said. “They’re fundamental in getting these experiences that make us love high school, that make us love school. It makes us think back about all the memories.”

The incentive has helped reduce absenteeism and has played a key role in establishing a positive culture at East High.

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