In an innovative approach to enhancing student engagement, Susannah Keneda has introduced a unique initiative called Keneda Ka$h, where students are incentivized to attend class. While it’s not real money, the classroom economy she has created is proving to be an effective tool for making consumer math lessons more relatable and practical for her students.
Through Keneda Ka$h, students earn “cash” for simply showing up to class, with opportunities for bonuses tied to various activities like bringing additional supplies or participating in school events. Keneda has also implemented a straightforward taxation system on students’ earnings, mirroring real-world financial responsibilities. We spoke with Susannah to learn more about this creative program, and it’s truly impressive.
Q: Where did the idea for Keneda Ka$h come from?
This is my fourth year implementing Keneda Ka$h. The idea originated from my consumer math curriculum; I grew weary of assigning checkbook worksheets, especially since many students won’t ever manage a checkbook. I thought, if school is their job, why not pay them to attend? And that’s how Keneda Ka$h was born.
Q: How does the system work day-to-day?
Each day, students start by “paying” themselves a dollar. They utilize a Google spreadsheet I created, which handles all the calculations. They input the date and their attendance status: T for tardy, P for present, or A for absent. Absentees miss out on earnings, fostering a sense of personal responsibility.
Q: What kind of bonuses do you offer?
Teaching primarily 8th and 9th graders, I encourage them to engage in activities outside of regular school hours. Some notable bonuses include:
- $20 for attending an open house with a family member
- $50 for participating in our district’s college night
- $5 for each box of Kleenex brought to class
- $2 for wearing their ID, plus an additional $5 if the entire class wears IDs
- 50 cents for joining in on spirit or dress-up days (I’m quite flexible—pajama pants are acceptable!)
Q: Do you use real money? How do students track earnings?
No real money is involved—no paper bills or coupons. Everything operates through their Google spreadsheet, which most students keep open on their Chromebooks for daily updates.
Q: What’s new this year?
This year, I’ve introduced paid time off! Once students accumulate $35 after net pay, they can drop their lowest daily grade. This perk doesn’t deduct from their total—it’s a bonus. I wanted them to learn what PTO means in a real-world context.
Q: How do taxes and the store work?
Every six weeks, students fill out a Google form to calculate their net versus gross pay. They are taxed as follows:
- 20% for taxes
- 10% rental fee
- 5% for medical insurance
Afterward, they can shop at “Kmart” for snacks (typically priced at $5 each) or trade cash for extra credit (at a 2:1 exchange rate). At the end of the semester, any remaining cash can be converted into exam points (at a 4:1 ratio). Given that my semester exam consists of 100 questions, this incentive really drives them!
Q: What impact has Keneda Ka$h had?
Students often express concern about losing their cash, which encourages them to stay in class. Parents frequently reach out to me, amused by their children’s newfound understanding of gross versus net pay. You wouldn’t believe how hard students are willing to work for money that isn’t even real!
Q: What advice would you give other teachers who might want to try something similar?
Just dive in! Ask students what kinds of rewards they’d find motivating—usually snacks and extra credit. Be flexible and make adjustments as needed. To create a sense of excitement, keep the store open only on tally days. Ensure that all rewards comply with school guidelines. Keneda Ka$h encourages students to take responsibility for their actions, reflecting the realities of a real job.
