PBIS
Our PBIS program is up and running...
The PBIS program here at Hawthorne Elementary School has begun! Please glance through this newsletter to learn more about What we are doing, Why we are doing it, and How it is going so far...(and how you can help).
So, what is PBIS, anyway?
PBIS stands for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support. This is a nationally recognized program and is (typically) supported through state grants. One of the textbook definitions is:
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a way for schools to encourage good behavior. With PBIS, schools teach kids about behavior, just as they would teach about other subjects like reading or math.Our teachers will teach lessons on how to Be Safe, Organized, Accountable, and Respectful (Our Hawthorne Pledge) in many different areas of our school. Moving on from those lessons, students attended the Kick Off Assembly, and began to earn SOAR BEHAVIOR BUCKS!
WHY P.B.I.S.?
PBIS creates a common dialogue, common vocabulary, and common goals for Hawthorne and allows us all to be on the same page. Not only does PBIS help with behavior issues, it helps build a deeper sense of community among students and staff.And, as the name suggests, PBIS works by recognizing the positive aspects of what we are looking for, which has been an awesome experience for all of us!
HOW does it work?
Classroom teachers will teach lessons composed of our SOAR Matrix (below) in homerooms. Specials teachers will support those lessons by reviewing expectations during their time with each grade level, too. We will have our kick-off assembly which describes how kids could earn SOAR Behavior Bucks and what happens to the bucks once they are earned. Basically, when a student demonstrates how to be SAFE, ORGANIZED, ACCOUNTABLE OR RESPECTFUL, they can earn a buck.
Students
Earn bucks daily in a virtual bank. Every month , students are able to use their bucks to buy prizes from Candyland or earn an incentive of the month. We track how many BEHAVIOR BUCKS a student earns and how many the school earns as a whole group.
In addition to PBIS we will utilize CABS.
A caring adult in the building (C.A.B) will be assigned to each child. If your child is struggling in any area (academics, social or emotional, ect.), your child can speak to this person that he or she feels comfortable with. This individual is there as a support to the child. Your child will be able to select the individual or one will be assigned.