We are excited to begin a new school year and our 5th year of being a Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) school. Behavior is a priority at Terrace Heights Elementary.

What is PBIS? Put simply, it is a proactive approach to school-wide discipline. This initiative is meant to reinforce the positive behaviors of students as well as support students who need extra assistance to reach the following school-wide expectations: Problem Solve, Accept Responsibility, Work Hard, and Show Respect.

Why do we need PBIS? In the past, school-wide discipline has focused mainly on reacting to specific student misbehavior by implementing punishment-based strategies including reprimands, loss of privileges, office and detention room referrals, suspensions, and expulsions. Research has shown that the implementation of punishment, especially when it is used inconsistently and in the absence of other positive strategies, is ineffective. Introducing, modeling, and reinforcing positive social behavior is an important step of a student's educational experience. The purpose of PBIS is to establish a climate in which appropriate behavior is the norm. As the main premise of PBIS, it is best to take a proactive stance rather than a reactive approach to behavior. Setting aside the time for planned teaching of social-emotional skills will reduce the amount of time spent disciplining students each week.

PBIS is truly a win-win initiative for our students, our staff, and our school. Our expectation is that we keep the excitement going throughout the year and impact student achievement through the use of Positive Behavior Support.

Thank you,

Positive Behavior Intervention Support Team