What is PBIS?
Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an approach we use to establish the behavioral supports and social culture needed for all students to achieve social, emotional and academic success. PBIS applies a three-tiered system of support and a problem-solving process to enhance the capacity of the ELV to effectively educate all students. In addition, staff has been trained to use Conscious Discipline techniques and strategies to provide positive behavioral supports to students.
PBIS has been shown to be effective in:
Reducing discipline problems
Improving overall academic outcomes
Reducing bullying behavior
Improving social/emotional competence.
The three behavior expectations (PAW) at the Early Learning Village are:
Please Stay Safe
Always Be a Friend
Work Smart
These expectations are taught to all students throughout the school year. There are rules and procedures for all areas of the building. Many of them can be found on the ELV behavior matrix below.
How are students acknowledged for appropriate behavior at the ELV?
Students are rewarded for following the behavior expectations in the several ways:
“All That and a Bag of Chips” - students who are following classroom expectations are chosen by their teachers to visit the office for a treat.
Students are chosen monthly for Student of the Month.
Each classroom has a unique acknowledgement system in which students work together to earn a classroom reward.
Children are acknowledged authentically with smiles, high fives, and positive specific
feedback. For example: “You did it! When you used walking feet, you were being safe!”
What happens when students demonstrate challenging behavior?
Challenging behaviors are seen as opportunities for learning. Teachers are patient when children lose control and understand that it takes time for children to work things through. We listen to what children say and value their feelings and frustration. It is essential to teach social and emotional skills to young children. Our goal at the Early Learning Village is for children to manage themselves while developing inner controls. We encourage children to resolve their own conflicts and encourage them to verbalize their own feelings.
Steps used in the classroom when a child is having a difficult time include the following:
The child is reminded of the rule.
If a child continues to have a difficult time, s/he is asked to join the teacher until the child is ready to talk about the problem.
When the child is ready to discuss the incident, s/he tells the teacher what s/he did wrong and what s/he could have done instead.
The teacher helps the child to re-enter play or choose a different activity.
Child is removed from the activity that is too difficult for him/her at that time and is redirected into a guided activity. As children are redirected we are careful not to admonish or embarrass them in front of their peers. When the appropriate behavior is demonstrated, the child’s behavior is acknowledged. Example: “Now you’re keeping yourself safe!”
behaviors. If needed, a child may access a “safe space” in the classroom to regain
composure.
How can parents/guardians get involved?
Parents are welcome and encouraged to assist with PBIS implementation at the ELV. Some ways parents can become involved are:
Serve as a representative on the PBIS team
Assist with events
Discuss school-wide expectations with your student at home
Assist with developing community partnerships.
How do I get help if my child is struggling with behavior?
Despite our best efforts, students sometimes engage in challenging behavior. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, please contact one of the staff members listed below. They are eager to help and are equipped to provide the necessary support for your student to be successful.
Whom do I contact?
If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding PBIS at the Early Learning Center, please contact:
Sanya Henley, Principal
[email protected]
Linda Blanch, District PBIS Coordinator
216-261-2900 ext. 6952
[email protected]