MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – The Memphis Grizzlies want to help students “represent” every day by showing up for school and being engaged in learning.
Tuesday, the NBA team joined Shelby County Schools, Delta Dental of Tennessee, and the Shelby County DA’s office launch this program. The incentive-based initiative is designed to reduce truancy and to get students excited. Tuesday, the Grizzlies, also affectionately known as the “Beale Street Bears,” held a pep rally at Magnolia Elementary School.
“What we saw this as as Delta Dental is this is a great partner here in the city. This is going to represent us as a group that wants to see education grow and the children get better in life,” said Phil Wenk, Delta Dental of Tennessee.
“Represent Every Day” will reward students with multiple incentives, including swag bags, Grizzlies gear, tickets to games, and more.
The program hopes to decrease student absence rates by 5-12% at each targeted school by the end of the school year.