What is PBIS ?
PBIS is an approach schools can use to improve school safety and promote positive behavior. It also helps schools decide how to respond to a child who misbehaves.
At its heart, PBIS calls on schools to teach kids about behavior, just as they would teach about any other subject-like reading or math. PBIS recognizes that kids can only meet behavior expectations if they know what the expectations are. A hallmark of a school using PBIS is that everyone knows what's appropriate behavior. Throughout the school day-in class, at lunch/recess, in the hallways/bathrooms and on the bus-kids understand what's expected of them.
PBIS has a few important guiding principles:
- Every child can learn proper behavior.
- Stepping in early can prevent more serious behavior problems.
- Each child is different and schools need to provide many kinds of behavior support.
- How schools teach behavior should be based on research and science.
- Following a child's behavioral progress is important.
- Schools must gather and use data to make decisions about behavior problems.
Keep in mind that PBIS is not a treatment or therapy. It's a framework for teachers, administrators and parents to follow. It's also important to know that when a school uses PBIS, it uses it for all students.
Fairview staff have been working on professional development around PBIS. As a school we began to work on Tier I last year, developing a schoolwide, universal system for all grade levels. We focused on what it looked like to be safe, respectful and responsible. We developed a ticket system and students were recognized and praised for good behavior. As a school we voted and celebrated each time we met our school goals.
This year we will continue to work on PBIS by adding Tier II, which provides an extra layer of support for kids who continue to struggle with behavior. Students in need will receive evidence-based intervention(s)and instruction as needed.
If you have any additional questions regarding PBIS, feel free to contact your child's teacher or school administration.
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