Fifty-five middle school students (above) from the Southeastern Laboratory School enjoyed food provided by
Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. during an afternoon of fun as a reward for meeting the
Academic Integrity Incentive criteria. The criteria included completing all homework assignments,
having a maximum of one tardy and no unexcused absences and participating in all of their classes.
Photo Courtesy of Hart Bordelon
The United States education system is centered around students memorizing facts and worrying about grading scales rather than learning for the sake of learning.
The Southeastern Laboratory School faculty and staff members, including principal Pat Williams and many middle school teachers, collaboratively designed and implemented the Academic Integrity Incentive.
Certified Public Accountant Hart Bordelon of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. was excited for the opportunity to sponsor the Academic Integrity Incentive because education plays a fundamental role in the company.
“When asked by the school to sponsor the event, Gulf Coast Bank jumped at the chance to be part of such a great event,” said Bordelon. “Supporting education is part of the community outreach spirit at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust.”
Bordelon believes that educating the youth is an important factor when determining the future success of state and local economies.
“Not only are these students the future of our parish and state, but quality education drives the local economy and is a cornerstone of any community,” said Bordelon.
Middle school teachers challenged their fifth through eighth grade students to participate in the Academic Integrity Incentive. The incentive included criteria such as students always having their homework and materials, having no more than one tardy and no unexcused absences, participating in all of their classes and working well with their peers.
Bordelon believes that presenting students with incentives that do not involve letter grades or percentage points is a great idea.
“What made this challenge great was that it was not score driven,” said Bordelon. “Students who work hard but do not make high grades are still rewarded for their efforts.”
A total of 59 middle school students successfully completed the challenge. On October 16, Bordelon along with Carolyn Giannobile from Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. sponsored an afternoon of fun including food, drink, music and games for these special students.
Bordelon was pleased with the way the free-time event turned out.
“The event was a huge success,” said Bordelon. “The students enjoyed the food and games, but the DJ seemed to be the highlight of the afternoon.”
Although Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. is new to the Hammond area, Bordelon plans on sponsoring many more events in the Hammond community in regard to the academic excellence of students of all ages.
“As Gulf Coast Bank & Trust grows to become part of the greater Hammond community, we plan to reach out to other schools in the area to reward students for their hard work,” said Bordelon. “We also offer a full line of products exclusively for educators, including free checking with interest, and lower loan rates.”