My students absolutely love the 'Boo-yah.' This gesture is more of a celebration of the smallest success in the classroom. When a student who normally sits quietly shares an idea or answers a question, I simply look at the class and say, "Guys, don't you think, Johnny deserves a Boo-Yah!" The students respond by covering their eyes momentarily with their hands then removing their hands while exclaiming, "Boo-Yah" to little Johnny! This is simple, yet effective. Students are waiting for their well deserved 'Boo-yah!'

Alta David

I love this! Thanks for sharing. My students also LOVE when the whole class praises them. We also use:

Class tell Johnny- "You are so intelligent"
Class tell Johnny- "Wow, you are awesome"
or "Wow you are a math wiz", Etc.

It is awesome to see their faces light up.

Also, when I call on a student and I can tell they don't have a clue and are nervous- I simply say "The class and I are supporting you 100%. We are here for you for help and you can "call a friend" to help you. They seem to like this too. It helps them feel comfortable.

What ever you use - positive praise and reinforcement is critical. The teachers at my school try to incorporate music as much as possible to get kids singing.

If a student is struggling they might sing, "Aint no mountain high enough"
If a student has a great answer they might sing, "Ghetto Super Star, That is what you are"

Your school sounds like a lot of fun to teach at as well as to learn at.

just read you post. Shame on me for being away so long and missing this. I am a music teacher and do I ever love you use of music as encouragement. Will have to 'steal' this and incorporate in my classroom. Oh Yeah!