Golden Ticket
How reading
pays to learn
Third-graders in Monterey County who demonstrate grade-level reading proficiency on the annual state assessment (CAASPP or the CSA) will receive a GOLDEN TICKET and $250.
We have included the California Spanish Assessment (CSA) because data indicates that third graders who are literate in Spanish will soon become literate in English as well.
It is important to note that we do not believe a $250 reward alone will change the trajectory of California’s literacy scores. We are testing whether this incentive, when paired with an appropriate literacy landscape—including evidence-based curriculum and professional development for teachers—will motivate students and their families to support their literacy journey in new ways.
We ask participating school districts to ensure that TK-3rd grade students view this as an incentive. Students should understand that achieving "Standard Met" or "Standard Exceeded" on the CAASPP, or "High Degree" on the CSA, will result in a $250 award. This is intended to be a goal for them to work towards, rather than simply a reward after the fact.
Golden Ticket Monterey County gives out nearly $200,000 in 2026.
The Golden Ticket Monterey County has awarded $198,750 to 795 students for meeting or exceeding third grade standards on the state test taken in May, known as the CAASPP.
Official statewide results will appear on the state Department of Education Website by the end of September. Those results will show whether there has been improvement by district, and how much. Stay tuned. We will update the link when the data is populated.
Here are the participating districts for 2026:
As we grow, more districts will be added. If you want your school district to get on the list, please contact Susie Brusa: susie@thegoldenticketfoundation.org
The Golden Ticket Awards
