In pursuit of big gains, students’ smaller successes can go unnoticed. Research suggests that’s a missed opportunity to spark motivation.
Students often envision academic success as a smooth, straightforward path straight to an A+. However, the truth is that setbacks are inevitable, and progress is often slow or inconsistent causing many students to lose motivation along the way.
According to high school English teacher Cathleen Beachboard, the key to staying motivated isn’t about setting lofty, ambitious goals. Instead, it lies in breaking tasks into “small, manageable steps and celebrating progress along the way.” This method not only reinforces a sense of accomplishment but also aligns with how the brain naturally learns, helping students develop long term, intrinsic motivation.
Yet, in both school evaluations and students’ own reflections on success, these small victories are often overlooked and that can be a missed opportunity. A 2024 study involving 570 third and sixth grade students found that when half the participants were given five easier math problems before tackling ten more difficult ones, their initial experience of success provided a boost in confidence as they approached the tougher tasks.
Although both groups ultimately faced the same number of challenging problems, the students who began with a few easier ones were twice as likely to feel eager about tackling another set of tough questions. Experiencing early success gave them a sense of competence, fueling their motivation to push through the harder tasks. “The psychology behind small wins is that success sets you up for the anticipation of further success,” writes independent school administrator Stephanie Farley. “Doing well can shape the belief that you’ll continue to do well, prompting behaviors that lead to future success.”
Whether it’s shifting a habit or bouncing back from a disappointing grade, students often make meaningful progress that flies under the radar. Recognizing and celebrating these small achievements, says Beachboard, is “essential to keeping students engaged for the long haul.” It fosters resilience and equips them to face larger challenges with greater confidence and a more optimistic mindset.
Here are 13 teacher approved strategies to help you highlight the kinds of wins your students might not even notice themselves.
A quick, three minute phone call to a student’s family to share a bit of good news can turn a small success into a memorable moment, says educational consultant Elena Aguilar. The reason for the call doesn’t have to be big, she explains: “I just wanted to let you know that today, when walked into class, he said ‘Good morning’ and immediately opened his notebook. I had a feeling it was going to be a great day!”
Appropriate for all ages.
A trip to the principal’s office for a good reason: At Sam Houston Elementary, students who show positive behaviors like honesty, responsibility, or consistent academic effort can earn a positive office referral. Teachers fill out a short form recognizing the student’s actions, and every Friday, the selected students visit the principal’s office for a celebratory phone call home. They also get to take a copy of the referral home to proudly share with their family.
Best for elementary grades.
Create a chain of accomplishments: Former school psychologist Laura Driscoll recommends using paper chains to help students track their progress over time. Each time a student achieves something no matter how small, like completing homework or keeping their phone put away they write it on a paper loop and add it to the growing chain. Over the school year, this visual record of success becomes a powerful symbol of their hard work.
Ideal for elementary and middle school students.
Contribute to the ‘Smile Pile’: In Lory Peroff’s fourth grade classroom, students write down moments that made them smile and add them to the Smile Pile, a bucket filled with handwritten notes of positivity. If a student includes their name, it signals they’d like to share their moment during the weekly class discussion. Anonymous entries remain private. Recent notes include moments like, “I made a new friend. I am so happy,” and “I accomplished my WIG (wildly important goal) for quarter 3. Now I am a much faster typer than before. Yay!”
Let students take the lead as experts: While teachers bring expertise to the classroom, they’re not the only ones with valuable knowledge, says Julie Johnson, senior lecturer at Ohio State University. “There are also twenty some others who contribute valuable knowledge to our community.” Middle school teacher librarian Shannon Engelbrecht regularly taps into that student expertise by asking if anyone knows how to do common tech tasks, like creating a browser bookmark. With permission, she invites those students to act as go to helpers for their peers. It’s a meaningful win for the “student expert,” and it inspires others to see their classmates and themselves as capable leaders.
Perfect for elementary and middle grades.
Deliver a dose of encouragement: High school English teacher Cathleen Beachboard keeps a stack of bright note cards on her desk year round. Whenever she notices a student making progress like a usually quiet student speaking up in class she writes a quick Hope Note. “It might be something simple like, ‘I see how hard you’re working it’s paying off! Keep going,’” she says. She’ll discreetly leave the note on the student’s desk or tuck it into a notebook. Even though high schoolers might act unfazed, she says many hold onto these notes long after they’re given.
Spot excellence in the everyday: Be on the lookout for standout moments whether it’s a beautifully crafted sentence or a clever solution to a tough problem, suggests teacher Lory Peroff. Consider recognizing achievements like “Best Narrative Writing of the Month” or “Most Clear Mathematical Thinking.” You can also spotlight interpersonal strengths with awards like “Most Collaborative Group Member.” Instead of focusing solely on individuals, this approach highlights the specific skills and qualities you want to encourage, offering students concrete examples of excellence to aim for.
Great for middle and upper grades.
A surprise visit from the principal: A spontaneous visit from the principal can make a big impression. When students consistently show up on time, collaborate effectively, or contribute to a positive classroom environment, invite your school leader to stop by and acknowledge the class’s efforts. Give students the chance to join the conversation and encourage them to share what they’ve accomplished and reflect on the progress they’ve made together.
Celebrate student growth: At Long Beach Polytechnic High School in California, teachers nominate students every six weeks for showing improvement in key areas like attendance, effort, or attitude. These students are then invited to a “making gains” celebration, where they receive a certificate from their nominating teacher, enjoy pizza, and take home a fun swag bag. “The students’ reactions are truly the highlight,” says CTE teacher and counselor Michael Gray, who coordinates the event. “For many, it’s their first time receiving any kind of award in school. Their gratitude and pride are real, some even bring the certificate home to show their families, and a few have been brought to tears.”
Ideal for middle and upper grades.
Wrap it up with a celebration: Set aside a special day for students to share their successes at the end of a unit. Add simple snacks and drinks to make it feel like a party, suggests staff developer Beth Moore. “Spread out blankets or tablecloths in the classroom, outside, or even in the gym!” In an ELA class, students might read work where they mastered tone or mood, while an art class could host a mini gallery walk where young artists present their favorite pieces.
Fun for all grade levels.
Save wins for later spotlighting: A schoolwide “success chest” makes it easy to collect and celebrate small victories over time. Teachers and even students can fill out cards recognizing achievements, big or small, and drop them into the chest. “Print cards and give them to every faculty member,” suggests Erin Lynch, an elementary literacy specialist. Each week, a few cards are pulled and read aloud during morning announcements, highlighting everything from acts of kindness to athletic or artistic milestones.
Best for elementary and middle grades.
Fuel up with the principal: At Principal Zac Bauermaster’s school, fist bumps and high fives are part of the culture especially on Fist Bump Fridays. But once a month, 18 students nominated by their teachers get a special reward: “Protein with the Principal.”
Protein with the Principal: At Providence Elementary School in Pennsylvania, one student from each homeroom is selected each month for a special breakfast with the principal celebrating those who have been especially encouraging to their peers. It’s a big deal, says Principal Zac Bauermaster. “Protein makes us stronger, just like being an encourager builds others up and makes our school a better place,” he explains. The breakfast also promotes healthy eating habits “You’d be surprised how many kids are excited about hard boiled eggs!”
Designed for elementary grades.
Catch students in the moment: When a student does something kind, thoughtful, or brave and is eager to share it, teacher Cathleen Beachboard reaches for her Polaroid camera to snap a picture for the classroom’s “Caught You Being Awesome” wall. A digital camera or phone works too photos can be saved for a slideshow to highlight moments throughout the year. “Students love seeing themselves recognized, and it inspires others to step up too,” she says.