There’s new reward system at JHop that allows scholars to accumulate points that they can exchange for treats and participate in leisure activities.

The system, named G.E.M. – or Growing Through Educational Experiences, Making Goals Attainable – is similar to the Harry Potter series, where all wizards are assigned into a house based on core traits and characteristics.

JHop Principal Ms. Scott said she was inspired by JHop’s location in the city to establish the system which sets the school apart from others.

“We are in the south side of St. Pete, why not roll with the gem of the south?” principal Ms. Scott says.

At the start of the school year, most students and teachers were sectioned into five houses – ruby, emerald, onyx, citrine, and sapphire – by spinning a wheel in first period.

JHop Principal Ms. Scott introduced system that allows teachers to reward students with points for doing well in school. These points will give students opportunities to buy fun treats such as popsicles or do fun things like eat outside during lunch. Teachers also can open their own stores in their classrooms.

ELA teacher Ms. Kreuzkamp, said she enjoys the G.E.M. system and the teamwork that comes with it.

“I think the point system is cool,” she said.

Students have different opinions about the new system.

Eighth grader, Jane McNelis, who is in the ruby house, believes that the house system is an interesting concept with its relationship to Harry Potter. She also believes that the point system is a good opportunity for the well-behaved students to participate in these upcoming events, and to get some good rewards and treats.

Another eighth grader, Asha Howard who is an onyx, says that the G.E.M. housing is okay, but they don’t do enough with it.

Ms. Scott says that there will be house leaders for teachers and students.

One goal is to travel to Atlanta with the leaders to the Ron Clarke Academy next summer.