Brian Jacob spoke to the Detroit Free Press about proposed legislation to pay Detroit kids for doing well in school. Many disagree about whether an incentivized program, based on research conducted by Harvard University's Roland Fryer, is right for Detroit Public Schools.
Some argue that students shouldn't be rewarded for going to school and getting good grades. Others contend that these programs offer incentives, not bribes, and could help kids develop good study habits. "I definitely think the notion of financial incentive is worth considering and worth pursuing," Jacob told the Detroit Free Press. But, Jacob cautioned, a pilot program testing the idea would be best at this point because one study isn't conclusive proof and more research is needed.