Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) PBIS is a proactive, schoolwide approach used to promote positive behavior and create safe, supportive learning environments for all students.

Instead of focusing only on discipline after problems occur, PBIS teaches and reinforces clear expectations for behavior. Schools using PBIS define what respectful, responsible, and safe behavior looks like, explicitly teach those expectations to students, and recognize students when they meet them.

PBIS is typically organized into three levels of support:

• Universal supports (Tier 1): Schoolwide expectations and strategies for all students
• Targeted supports (Tier 2): Additional help for students who need more guidance
• Intensive supports (Tier 3): Individualized interventions for students with significant needs

The approach also uses data to guide decisions, helping schools identify trends, improve practices, and provide the right level of support.

Overall, PBIS helps build a positive school culture by focusing on prevention, consistency, and strong relationships between students, staff, and families.