People shouldn't be loudly proud of minor achievements.
James managed to bring his grade in history up from a D to a C.
James wants to feel better about himself.
James continues to work hard and manages to bring his grade up to an A.
James tells everyone he knows about how he's now getting a C in history.
James' parents and teachers give him lots of praise and recognition.
When James is out of earshot, his friends say he really needs to reassess his life.