Or perhaps it's because it takes me back to my childhood. It reminds me of the good old days when my biggest concern was which boy liked which girl, when pizza day was in the cafeteria, and whether or not I'd be able to go outside for recess. No matter what it is, I love the atmosphere inside grade schools.

Recently, I had the chance to go to Jacox Elementary School in Norfolk because they've started a new program where they reward parents if their child passes the state standardized tests. For each test the student passes, the parents get $10. It's an interesting idea that takes me back to a very familiar argument with my parents.

I'd try to convince them that they should pay me for every A I got on my report card (I knew I could make a bundle since I got mostly As with a B sprinkled in every now and then). My parents would tell me they didn't think it was a good idea, and I should work hard and study because I want to learn, not for prizes. Of course, i'd fire back with every child's favorite argument, "everyone else's parents do it!" But I never managed to convince them.

Unfortunately, I think my parents knew that with or without extra dollar bills in my pocket I would ace spelling quizzes, study for social studies tests, and practice my fractions. But now I can't help but wonder if they would have changed their minds about cash rewards if THEY were the ones getting paid for my grades...