Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

WHAT IS PBIS ?

PBIS is a research based, systematic approach to teaching expected behaviors. It includes a three level system to address behavior needs and expectations school-wide, in classrooms and for students with at-risk behaviors. Behaviors are explicitly taught and reinforced through positive behavior supports.

WHAT IS P.A.W.S ?

PAWS is the acronym at Longfellow to outline the following expectations:

P-Perseverance
A-Are Always Responsible
W-Work and Play Safely
S-Show Respect

At Longfellow Elementary, we utilize a Behavior Matrix that was created and is implemented by all school personnel. It includes the expected behaviors in all school settings (for example, playground, library, classroom, etc). The behavior matrix is reviewed and revisited on a consistent basis. Each month, all classrooms are given a Matrix Lesson, which is a specially designed lesson plan in order to explicitly teach a desired behavior in a selected location. For example, in August, students were taught how to demonstrate safety on the playground. In early September, students were taught how to show perseverance during math instruction in the classroom and at home. At Longfellow, we are promoting, “Pause, and think of P.A.W.S” to help our students make thoughtful decisions regarding the choices they make at school, at home and in the community.

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO TO SUPPORT PBIS and PAWS ?

*Ask your child or children about their day

*Talk about making good choices and showing their “PAWS” at home and at school

*Read books/articles that discuss behavior or have lessons that teach them about character building

*Communicate often with your child’s teacher on behavior. Ask how you can help and share what works at home

*Look out for newsletters regarding PBIS information

*Read books to your children that teach about character or behavior

WHEN STUDENTS MAKE MISTAKES:

When students do not follow the rules, we provide them opportunities to reflect on their choices and relearn the matrix behaviors through logical consequences. The flow chart was designed by the staff as a guide to provide consistency and fairness in responding to behavior mistakes. Our staff also created a list of logical consequences that give students opportunities to think about their choices and to practice the matrix behaviors.