We are excited to introduce you to Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a proactive approach to fostering positive behavior in our school community. PBIS is a framework that focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors while reducing problematic ones. We believe that PBIS can create a more supportive and productive learning environment for all students. Here at Warm Springs we have a PBIS Team that has been working over the past few years to develop and implement this system and we fully launched it this year!

Here's a brief overview of PBIS and how it works:

• Core Values and Expectations: PBIS begins with establishing clear and positive core values, such as respect, responsibility, and kindness. These values serve as the foundation for behavior expectations throughout the school. Here is our Behavior Matrix which all students have been trained on. This Behavior Matrix is a live document that we can adjust based on student behavior as needed. All students and staff have been trained on the Matrix and we will continue to teach lessons on various parts of the Matrix, each week.

• Explicit Teaching: Teachers explicitly teach these behavior expectations to students. This includes not only what behaviors are expected but also why they are essential in creating a positive school culture.

• Consistent Language: PBIS uses a common language to communicate behavior expectations across all areas of the school. This helps ensure that students understand what is expected of them in various settings.

• Recognition and Reinforcement: Positive behaviors are recognized and reinforced regularly. This can include verbal praise, tangible rewards, or other incentives to motivate students to continue displaying positive behaviors.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: PBIS involves collecting data on behavior incidents and analyzing this information to make informed decisions. By identifying trends and problem areas, we can tailor interventions to address specific student needs.

• Tiered Support: PBIS uses a tiered approach to provide varying levels of support based on individual student needs. Tier 1 interventions are for all students, Tier 2 for those who need additional support, and Tier 3 for students with the most significant challenges.

• PAWS Reward System: We reward students for doing a great job following our Behavior Matrix. Each Friday there will be a raffle. Here are a few slides that explain how the system works.

How You Can Get Involved:

• Learn About PBIS: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the PBIS framework and its principles. Here is a great resource for this.

• Support at Home: Reinforce the core values and behavior expectations at home. Consistency between home and school environments is key to a child's success.

• Communication: Stay connected with Warm Springs and your child's teachers. If you have questions or concerns about PBIS or about your child's behavior, don't hesitate to reach out.

We are excited to embark on this journey of implementing PBIS here at Warm Springs. Our goal is to further create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where ALL students can thrive academically and socially. With your support and active participation, we are confident that we can achieve this goal. Ours students and staff have been doing a wonderful job, so far!