PBIS Defined:
Positive Behavioral Interventions & Support (PBIS) is rooted in the behavioral or behavior analytical perspective in which it is assumed that behavior is learned, is related to immediate and social environmental factors, and can be changed. PBIS is based on the idea that students learn appropriate behavior in the same way they learn to read—through instruction, practice, feedback, and encouragement. Key features of PBIS include: (1) administrative leadership, (2) team-based implementation, (3) a clear set of defined positive expectations and behaviors, (4) teaching of expected behaviors, (5) recognition of meeting expected behaviors, (6) monitoring and correcting errors in behaviors, and (7) using data-based information for decision-making, monitoring, and evaluating building results.
Why PBIS?
Previously, school-wide discipline has focused mainly on reacting to specific student misbehavior by implementing punishment-based strategies including reprimands, loss of privileges, office referrals, suspensions, and expulsions. Research has shown that the implementation of punishment, especially when it is used inconsistently and in the absence of other positive strategies, is ineffective. Introducing, modeling, and reinforcing positive social behavior is an important aspect of a student’s educational experience. Teaching behavioral expectations and recognizing students for following them is a much more positive approach than waiting for misbehavior to occur before responding. The purpose of school-wide PBIS is to establish a climate in which appropriate behavior is the norm.
Building-Wide Expectations
In accordance with PBIS universal guidelines, the PBIS expectations at Lebanon High School are designed to (1) provide a clear understanding of expected student behavior, (2) be few in number, (3) be positively stated and structured, (4) use familiar language, and (5) include example behaviors defined for purposes of instruction. These expectations are defined as “The Yellowjacket Code.”
Connection to BSIP Goals
Positive Behavioral Interventions & Support promotes the accomplishment of BSIP goal one, which aims to decrease behavioral infractions by 25% this school year. PBIS assists towards this end as it is based upon the concept of teaching behaviors that will prevent noncompliance.