If there’s one thing that warms my heart every year, it’s seeing the incredible achievements of students who participate in the Paid for Grades program.
This year has been no exception, with ninth-grade students from four Pinellas County high schools earning an impressive $135,000 for their hard work and achievements!
$135,000 in Rewards for 2025
Like I stated, those rewards added up to $135,000 for students, mentors, and schools this year. It’s a number that reflects not just dollars, but the hours of effort, dedication, and growth that each student put into their studies.
“The Paid for Grades program showed me how much growth I could achieve when I pushed myself,” said Francessca Zitiello, a freshman from Eastlake High School. “It’s not just about making better grades; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself.”
These sentiments were echoed by Eastlake teacher and mentor Karen Dydzuhn, who emphasized the program’s ability to keep students engaged and motivated. “This program gives students an extra push, a reason to stay focused throughout the year. It’s rare to see something with such immediate and lasting impact.”
I pulled these quotes specifically, because for me, hearing these stories reminds me why we started this initiative years ago.
The Paid for Grades Program
Paid for Grades is a performance-based literacy initiative I launched in 2013, born out of a passion for helping students unlock their full potential. The concept is simple yet effective: students work to improve their GPA and literacy levels while maintaining strong attendance and good behavior. For their hard work and dedication, they earn financial rewards.
This year, the program expanded to include Eastlake High School, joining Boca Ciega, Hollins, and Lakewood high schools. A total of 135 students completed Paid for Grades, with each student receiving $500 for successfully completing the program. Mentors who guided and supported the students received $400, and schools benefited too, earning $100 for each successful student.
Beyond the financial incentive, Paid for Grades is about equipping students and educators with the resources and support they need to thrive. It’s about showing students that dedication, discipline, and effort can be rewarding in more ways than one.
Programs like this are more critical now than they’ve ever been. With reading and math scores declining nationwide, especially in Florida where eighth-grade reading scores have hit a 25-year low, we need innovative solutions to support students.
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as The Nation’s Report Card, the percentage of Florida eighth graders reading below the “basic” level reached 37% in 2024. That’s deeply concerning.
The numbers highlight the urgency of initiatives like Paid for Grades, which directly address literacy challenges while encouraging academic improvement.
What Makes Me Proud
Every year, the pride I feel in these students grows. Watching young people take ownership of their success, step up to challenges, and grow not just academically but personally, is the ultimate reward.
Watching this program grow year after year — and now expand to new schools like Eastlake — reminds me of why we started it in the first place. These students have proven that dedication, resilience, and the right support system can change lives. I hope every student walks away not just with a check, but with the belief that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to
Beyond that, the program fosters a sense of community. Our school-based ceremonies celebrate each student’s hard work, featuring certificates, swag bags, and well-deserved recognition. It’s more than an award ceremony; it’s a moment of shared pride and joy that none of us will forget any time soon.
The impact we’ve seen so far is just the beginning. Together, we can ensure that even more students have access to the tools, support, and encouragement they need to succeed.
And, to everyone who’s been part of this year’s accomplishments — from the students who stayed dedicated to the hardworking mentors and supportive schools — I thank you! It’s your commitment that drives the success of this program year after year.
Here’s to another year of growth, success, and inspiring achievements!
