Extra credit has been a tool for teachers to reward hard-working students, but its impact on overall fairness is up for debate.

For students with high averages, extra credit can be used as a motivator to go above and beyond.

However, there are students who take advantage of extra credit assignments and assume a failing grade can be improved with one assignment. Certain students that show lack of motivation during class and don’t do their work depend on extra credit opportunities to save their grade.

There should be more opportunities for kids to participate in extra credit assignments, but they should be given to students who fit the standards.

Students who are on top of their classwork, turn in their assignments on time, and participate during lessons should be given the opportunity to improve their grade.

It’s important that teachers create extra credit assignments centered around personal growth, not just boosting grades for the already good students.

WJPS teacher Ms. Muenkwitz said, “I think if there are students who participate and have good behavior and do all their classwork and homework, then there shouldn’t be a reason not to give them extra credit to benefit their overall average.”

WJPS 12th grader Kyle Nagele said, “I think teachers should give extra credit assignments to students who are willing to put in the effort and improve their grade.”