This professional development provides a comprehensive, research-informed exploration of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and its powerful impact on school and organizational culture and climate. Drawing directly from real-world implementation, Brady shares his leadership journey and lessons learned from designing, launching, and refining multiple PBIS frameworks alongside his teams, including DRIVE to Excellence, BARK to Excellence, and PEAK to Achieve. Each model was intentionally built to reflect the unique needs, values, and vision of the school community it served, while maintaining fidelity to PBIS best practices.

Grounded in national research and data, this session examines why PBIS is one of the most effective frameworks for improving school climate, student behavior, staff consistency, and overall engagement. Schools that implement PBIS with clarity and consistency experience measurable outcomes, including reductions in office discipline referrals and suspensions, improved student behavior and attendance, increased instructional time, stronger staff collaboration, and a more positive and predictable learning environment. PBIS shifts the focus from reactive discipline to proactive teaching of expectations, reinforcing positive behaviors, and supporting students through tiered interventions.

A central focus of this professional development is the BARK to Excellence model, which emphasizes being Brave, Attentive, Responsible, and Kind. Participants will explore how BARK was developed, communicated, and embedded into daily school life. Brady openly shares the “a-ha” moments that clarified what works, the challenges encountered during implementation, and the critical lessons learned through both successes and setbacks. These insights provide attendees with a realistic and transparent look at PBIS implementation, moving beyond theory into authentic practice.

Throughout the session, Brady and his team guide participants through the essential components of an effective PBIS framework, including clearly defined expectations, consistent language across campus, staff alignment, student voice, family communication, data tracking, and ongoing reflection. Attendees will examine how PBIS contributes directly to a positive culture and climate by creating shared ownership, strengthening relationships, and establishing trust among students, staff, and families.

This professional development also recognizes that PBIS is not a one-size-fits-all model. Participants will be introduced to a variety of PBIS structures and adaptations that can be tailored to fit different school levels, organizational settings, and community needs. Brady and his team will support attendees in thinking strategically about which elements best align with their context, mission, and vision.

By the end of the session, participants will engage in guided planning to begin writing or refining their own PBIS framework. Attendees will leave with a clear, actionable plan for developing or strengthening a PBIS model that can be implemented immediately and sustained over time. This includes strategies for staff buy-in, student engagement, data-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement.

This PBIS professional development is practical, reflective, and deeply connected to real experiences in schools. It empowers leaders and educators to move beyond compliance-based discipline systems and toward a shared, values-driven approach that positively transforms culture and climate. Participants will leave inspired, equipped, and ready to lead meaningful change that supports the success and well-being of every student and adult in their community.