Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)

Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS) is a systemic approach to proactive, school-wide behavior based on a Response to Intervention (RtI) model. PBIS applies evidence-based programs, practices and strategies for all students to increase academic performance, improve safety, decrease problem behavior, and establish a positive school culture. Schools implementing PBIS build on existing strengths, complementing and organizing current programming and strategies. The PBIS model has been successfully implemented in thousands of schools in over 40 states, resulting in dramatic reductions in disciplinary interventions and increases in academic achievement. Data-based decision making is a hallmark of PBIS, allowing successes to be easily shared with all relevant stakeholders.

Four Elements of PBIS

PBIS applies a team-based, problem-solving process that considers systems, data, practices, and outcomes:

Systems include the policies, procedures, and decision-making processes that consider school-wide, classroom, and individual student systems. Systems support accurate and durable implementation of practices and use data-based decision-making.

Data are used to guide decision-making processes and measure outcomes. Data support the selection and evaluation of practices and systems.

Practices include the strategies and programs that are used to directly enhance student learning outcomes and teacher instructional approaches.