DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — A new student recognition program is set to kick off this week at Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School, rewarding students for attendance, academic effort and positive behavior.
On Friday, Jan. 23, at 9 a.m., Sole Play Bama and Bright Key® Faine will celebrate the launch of the Sole Stars program during an event at Sole Play in Dothan.
The research-informed initiative recognizes Pre-K through fifth-grade students who consistently show up, work hard and maintain a positive attitude. Every nine weeks, three students and one teacher from each grade level are honored.
Students are selected based on three areas: attendance, academics and behavior. Attendance counts for 25 percent and requires at least 95 percent attendance, excluding excused absences. Academic effort and growth make up 35 percent, focusing on progress or consistent effort in reading and math. The remaining 40 percent is based on attitude and behavior, with students required to have no discipline referrals during the nine-week period.
Each nominee is reviewed using academic and behavior rubrics, with final selections verified by the Sole Stars Committee to ensure consistency.
Student recipients receive a new pair of sneakers from Sole Play, a certificate of achievement, and the chance to visit the store to personally select shoes they feel confident wearing. Teachers recognized through the program receive leadership recognition and a gift card to Sole Play Dothan.
Program organizers say Sole Stars is designed to boost attendance, improve engagement, encourage academic growth and promote positive behavior while supporting student dignity and belonging.
Many students at Jerry Lee Faine Elementary live at or below the poverty level, and organizers note that ill-fitting or worn shoes can contribute to discomfort, embarrassment or social withdrawal. By tying recognition to sneaker culture, the program aims to meet students where they are and turn motivation into meaningful rewards.
“Sole Stars takes something kids already care about and uses it to reinforce positive behavior and academic effort,” said Lindsey Wagner, Bright Key® Faine coordinator. “It’s a simple idea with a big impact. When students give their best, we meet them with opportunity.”
Bright Key® Faine is a partnership between The Harbor Dothan and Dothan City Schools.
For more information about the Bright Key® program, contact Bright Key® District Coordinator Brittany Shepard at 334-589-9148 or [email protected].
