This is a great post and I love the idea of using a public platform like Steemit to encourage students to improve their writing and researching skills, especially when there's a direct reward for well-written posts.
I wonder about the ethics of using students' work to raise money for their own classrooms, especially when so many students within the Philadelphia School District struggle with hunger, poverty, and/or homelessness. Do you think there would be room for students to determine where they would want their SD to go, whether it's the school, their own families, or maybe even other cultural institutions? Are there any other ethical considerations we should be keeping in mind?
Good point regarding the ethics of students essentially working to support their schools. Perhaps a separate institution, like the National History Day Philly, could encourage students to write about their findings and the process. (Calling @chelseareed)