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. In short, it teaches children how to behave by reinforcing positive behavior, versus only giving them a list of the rules and consequences of not following them.

According to Wisconsin School News magazine, "PBIS emphasizes a school-wide system of support that includes proactive strategies for defining, teaching and supporting appropriate student behaviors to create positive school environments."

Delavan-Darien High School adopted the PBIS method beginning in the 2010-11 school year. School staff members and administrators were trained in PBIS the prior year and began implementing the changes at the start of the school year.

Schools implementing PBIS build on existing strengths, complementing and organizing current programming and strategies. The PBIS model has been successfully implemented in hundreds of schools in over 40 states, resulting in dramatic reductions in disciplinary interventions and increases in academic achievement. Suspensions and expulsion numbers have dropped in schools that use PBIS, while they are seeing test scores rise and having better success meeting Adequate Yearly Progress Goals mandated by federal No Child Left Behind laws.

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.
• Outcomes are academic and behavioral targets that are endorsed and emphasized by students, families and educators and are measured using the gathered data.