We envision that all learning environments in Ohio will implement PBIS as an effective and proactive framework for improving safety, social competence and academic achievement for all students.
What is PBIS?
Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports is a broad range of systematic and individualized strategies for achieving important social and learning outcomes in school communities while preventing problem behavior. The key attributes of PBIS include preventive activities, data-based decision making, and a problem-solving orientation (Horner, 2000; Lewis & Sugai, 1999; Sugai et.al., 2000; Weigle, 1997).
Essential Requirements of PBIS
Community Connections
Schools Focus on building positive relationships with all stakeholder groups.
Clear Expectations
School communities identify 3-5 school-wide overarching behavioral expectations.
Comprehensive Instruction
Direct instruction, practice, and feedback in the expected behaviors are provided for each school setting. Small group and individualized social skills instruction are incorporated.
Consistency
Consistency in encouraging expected behaviors and discouraging infractions is provided through:
- active supervision
- proactive scheduling
- incentives and reinforcement
- logical consequences and clear office referral procedures
Supportive Structure
Teams focus on developing an infrastructure in schools that provide effective academic and behavioral supports for all students.
Why Implement PBIS?
- Reduction in problem behavior
- Increased academic performance
- Improved perception of safety
- Reduction in bullying behaviors
- Increased administrator time for instructional leadership
- Reduction in staff turnover
- Increased perception of teacher efficacy
- Improved social-emotional competence
- Increased positive school climate and culture
Horner, 2013
Integrating Initiatives for Safe & Positive School Climate
A Building Leadership Team uses the OIP 5-step process to design and implement school-wide PBIS. In a PBIS school, the school administrator is then also collaborating to:
- Prevent bullying
- Improve classroom management practices [OTES]
- Ensure student safety [prevent and reduce seclusion and restraint]
- Promote a positive school climate [OPES] that improves outcomes for all students.