What Is PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports)?
A school-wide framework for preventing behavioral problems through clear expectations, positive reinforcement, and tiered supports.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a proactive, school-wide framework for establishing a positive school culture and preventing behavioral problems. Rather than relying on punishment after misbehavior occurs, PBIS emphasizes teaching expected behaviors, reinforcing positive behavior, and using data to make decisions.
PBIS uses the same multi-tiered structure as RTI/MTSS. Tier 1 includes school-wide expectations (often taught explicitly), positive reinforcement systems, and consistent routines. Tier 2 provides targeted group interventions for students who need additional support. Tier 3 delivers individualized behavior plans (BIPs) for students with the most intensive needs.
Research shows that schools implementing PBIS with fidelity see reductions in office discipline referrals, suspensions, and bullying, along with improvements in academic achievement and school climate.
Related Terms
BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan)
A plan that outlines specific strategies and supports to address a student's challenging behavior, based on the findings of a Functional Behavior Assessment.
FBA (Functional Behavior Assessment)
A process for identifying the underlying function or purpose of a student's challenging behavior to develop effective interventions.
MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports)
A comprehensive framework that integrates academic instruction, behavioral supports, and social-emotional learning across multiple tiers of intensity.
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)
The process through which students develop self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
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