Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) provides a positive and effective alternative to the traditional methods of discipline. PBIS methods are research-based and proven to significantly reduce the occurrence of problem behaviors in the school, resulting in a more positive school climate and increased academic performance. The specific goal of PBIS is to use proactive, preventative, and instructional processes that will reduce the need for punitive disciplinary measures. Each school has adopted four school-wide expectations and has posted them throughout the school in all settings. Based on the discipline data, specific rules are listed under these expectations throughout the school (Specific lesson plans for all areas are taught at the beginning of the year and throughout the year to all schools with “booster” lessons based on the discipline data. Students are punished for not meeting the expectations, but, more importantly, recognized and rewarded for meeting those expectations through the use of rewards and recognition systems. These rewards and recognitions may be immediate or periodic throughout the school year.
The connection between families and schools is an important one. When families are meaningfully involved in educational activities their children do better in school. Families can play an important part in the success of PBIS in the schools. The presence of parents in school provides additional academic supports and creates community and cultural connections. As a parent you can use the same language as your child's teacher by emphasizing the four expectations of each school; be respectful, be responsible, be productive and be safe. By using these terms the children will understand that their family is connected to the school and that we all see these four expectations as important.