PBIS
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS)
PBIS is a multi-tiered, explicit framework designed to support positive student behavior through the
use of tiered instruction, evidence-based practices, and data-based decision making. PBIS is a
school-wide initiative and is led by a team of staff members and administration. The work of the PBIS
Team is built upon establishing 3-5 non-negotiable behavioral expectations for all students and then
creating a plan for ongoing implementation and sustainability.
At the Tier 1 level, staff model and teach how to demonstrate school-wide behaviors, and students
are acknowledged when doing so. The focus is on the positive behaviors that students exhibit. When
students are not able to meet the expectations, they are retaught the expectations until they are able
to comply rather than just being punished. Tier 2 is designed to help students who need a little more
behavioral support, typically through the use of small group instruction. The goal is to intervene
before students develop high-risk behaviors. Tier 3 interventions are reserved for students who need
intensive, individualized behavioral support.
When all three tiers are fully functioning, schools should expect to see a decrease in problem
behavior, and increase in positive behavior, and a more positive school climate.