Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports - an evidence-based framework used in schools to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes for all students. Instead of just reacting to unwanted behavior, PBIS focuses on proactively teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors through a multi-tiered system of supports, data-driven decision-making, and a positive school environment.
Here's how you might see it in our school:
- Focus on positive behavior: PBIS emphasizes teaching and recognizing expected behaviors, rather than solely redirecting unwanted ones.
- Data-driven: Schools use data to make decisions about what interventions and supports are needed for their students.
- Multi-tiered system: A three-tiered system provides different levels of support:
- Tier 1 (Universal): Supports are for all students, focusing on a school-wide matrix of expected behaviors, such as being respectful and responsible. About 80% of students will not need higher tiers.
- Tier 2 (Targeted): More intensive, small-group interventions are provided for students who need extra support.
- Tier 3 (Intensive): Individualized, highly intensive interventions are provided for a small number of students with significant needs.
- Evidence-based practices: Schools implement proven strategies and practices, such as clearly defined expectations, regular reinforcement of positive behavior, and consistent procedures.
- Family and community involvement: PBIS encourages schools and families to work together to create positive and culturally relevant outcomes for students.
Pond of Fame

All of our school staff are working together to implement our PBIS system. For example, you might see
- Staff giving out "turtle tickets" to reward positive behaviors
- Building classroom communities where all student voices are heard
- Recognizing students each week on our Pond of Fame to highlight their great choices
- Individualized plans created by staff to support student needs
- Student of the month assemblies for students showing our CRUISE character words
- Restorative circles between staff and students to repair harm
- Data meetings among staff
- Teachers creating routines and expectations the first month of school and continuing to reteach them as needed
Turtle Ticket Example
