PBIS
Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is a process for creating safer and more effective schools. The primary goals are to teach and reinforce appropriate behaviors as well as increase learning time for all students. PBS is used school-wide in the same way by every teacher and staff member. Students see consistent rewards and consequences and therefore better understand expectations.
The methods in PBS are research-based. This means that pilot schools have tracked their results to find the best ways to use PBS. PBS has been proven to significantly reduce the occurrence of problem behaviors and increase the positive atmosphere of the school. The system also helps to support students at all levels of behavioral needs.
PBS is an international initiative supported by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Our local support comes from the SEMO Regional Professional Development Center.
Starting on the first day of school, students are taught the behavior expectations that fall under the major categories of being safe, responsible, respectful, and organized. While walking in a straight line and raising your hand to be called on seems simple enough, sometimes students need clear examples. Throughout the school year, these lessons are reinforced daily and re-taught periodically. All adults in the building use the same language when referring to these expected behaviors. Teaching and modeling expected behaviors takes time, but if students learn up front what is expected of them, teachers will have more quality time to teach core subjects.
An important component of PBS is using data for decision making. The school will use discipline data to determine where and when problem behaviors are the highest. Then the teachers and staff will design strategies to improve those situations.
CMS now has several years of PBS under its belt. Every year we learn more about how to improve and how to catch students who usually “fall through the cracks.” Paired with our ICU program, PBS is helping CMS to become a model school for supporting students both academically and socially. Our motto is "Every student completes every assignment every day."
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 334-6281. Parent involvement is a great way to make PBS even better.