Supporting and Responding to Students’ Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Needs: Evidence-Based Practices for Educators
classroom-pbis
Behavior
Discipline
Fidelity
PBIS Foundations
This practice guide is an updated version of Supporting and Responding to Student Behavior (Office of Special Education Programs, 2015). "Supporting and Responding" summarizes evidence-based, positive, and proactive practices that support and respond to students’ social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) needs in classrooms and similar teaching and learning environments (e.g., small-group activity).
Last Updated:
May 21, 2024
Strengthening Tier 2/Tier 3 Systems & Practices Through the Use of a District Behavior Interventionist Role
coaching
districtstate-pbis
Evaluation
Intensive
Tier 2
Tier 3
After attempting to reach full implementation of healthy and functioning Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 behavioral systems at its elementary schools through years of training and coaching, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) found it necessary to strategically invest district resources in its PBIS efforts by targeting Tier 2 and initial Tier 3 systems (i.e., interventions not served via special education). SPS identified a need for a system’s focused and district-directed role and created a new Behavior Interventionist position in each elementary school to lead and coordinate Tier 2 and initial Tier 3 support systems. Starting with a pilot school in 2018 and expanding to a district-wide position in 2021, the district-directed Behavior Interventionist role transformed the district's ability to meet the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of its students. This brief first illustrates the importance of initial district planning and on-going, iterative implementation of culturally responsive Tier 1 supports as a critical foundation for Tier 2 and 3 supports. Next, the refinement and operationalization of Tier 2 systems as well as a district continuum of supports are shared as a way to contextualize and use data to identify systems needs. Lastly, we illustrate the importance of targeted district support and resource allocation can improve outcomes.
Last Updated:
May 3, 2024
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF): Teaching and Learning Stories, A Demonstration Brief
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Implementation
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Special education
This brief builds from the progressive development and increasing momentum of integrating SMH within a PBIS framework, with this work on ISF beginning in the late 2000s (see Barrett et al., 2013). Around the nation, many communities are implementing PBIS with an ISF focus—recognizing the complementary and mutual benefits of education and mental health systems working together with other youth-serving systems (e.g., child welfare, juvenile justice; Lever et al., 2003) and co-designing a continuum of supports with families and youth (Weist et al., 2017).
Last Updated:
January 24, 2024
The Impact of ISF on School Climate: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Climate
Implementation
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Outcome
The results of this study support the benefits of the InterconnectedSystems Framework (ISF) on school climate, with positive impacts reported by education staff and students.
Last Updated:
January 18, 2024
PBIS: An Evidence-Based Framework for Making Schools Safe, Positive, Predictable, and Equitable
school-wide
districtstate-pbis
Implementation
Discipline
Behavior
One-page brief describing the effectiveness and reach of the PBIS framework..
Last Updated:
January 12, 2024
PBIS Improves Student & Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
districtstate-pbis
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Implementation
Behavior
Systems Alignment
One-page brief describing the effectiveness and reach when schools integrate school mental health within a PBIS framework.
Last Updated:
January 12, 2024
PBIS Increases Student Engagement and Academic Achievement
school-wide
districtstate-pbis
Academics
Behavior
Implementation
Outcome
One-page brief describing the effectiveness and reach of the PBIS framework at increasing student engagement and academic achievement.
Last Updated:
January 12, 2024
PBIS Supports Students with Disabilities
students-with-disabilities
school-wide
districtstate-pbis
Behavior
Implementation
Individual
One-page brief describing the effectiveness and reach of the PBIS framework, particularly with students with disabilities.
Last Updated:
January 12, 2024
Differences in Perceptions of School Climate Based on Students' Identities: School Climate Evaluation Series, First of Two
equity
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Climate
Outcome
Tier 1
This series of evaluation briefs explores the relationship between (a) school climate (as measured by the Brief School Climate Survey for elementary and secondary students), (b) student-level demographics, and (c) PBIS Fidelity (as measured by the Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI). All briefs in this series include the same introductory information about the importance of school climate and details of the school climate survey. This brief examines the relationship between PBIS fidelity and perceptions of school climate.
Last Updated:
November 21, 2023
Supporting Deaf Students in the Classroom within a PBIS Framework
classroom-pbis
students-with-disabilities
Behavior
Special education
PBIS Foundations
Implementation
This document provides information to contextualize PBIS in the classroom for deaf students to better address unique needs and create more effective learning environments. Guided by PBIS core features, “top ten” practices are identified to support and respond to students’ social, emotional, and behavioral needs in the classroom with considerations for deaf students.
Last Updated:
November 17, 2023
Discipline Disproportionality Problem Solving: A Data Guide for School Teams
equity
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Action plan
Climate
Discipline
Ethnicity
This practice guide is one of a set of resources for increasing equity in school discipline. The guides are based on the Center on PBIS’s 5-Point Equity Approach, which has been shown to be effective in increasing equity in schools (link to https://www.pbis.org/resource/centering-equity-within-the-pbis-framework-overview-and-evidence-of-effectiveness). These 5 points include (a) using disaggregated discipline data, (b) ensuring that multi-tiered behavior frameworks are culturally responsive, (c) using engaging instruction, (d) developing effective policies, and (e) reducing implicit bias in discipline decisions. This guide addresses using discipline data.
Last Updated:
October 23, 2023
Is Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) an Evidence-Based Practice?
school-wide
equity
Evaluation
Fidelity
Research
Tier 1
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a widely implemented framework for promoting positive school systems and fostering students' social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health. Numerous studies indicate that PBIS implementation improves student outcomes, educator practices, and school systems. This brief presents the findings of a systematic literature review exploring how Tier 1 PBIS implementation affects valued educational outcomes. Findings demonstrate that PBIS can be designated an evidence-based practice for reducing exclusionary discipline and improving social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes.
Last Updated:
October 3, 2023
Extending Schoolwide Systems to Support Extracurricular Activities
school-wide
high-school-pbis
Community
Implementation
Social skills
Tier 1
Although extracurricular activities are valuable for school communities, they present specific contextual challenges including a) scheduling outside of school hours/locations, b) attendees who may not be directly connected to the school community, c) large groups together in unstructured spaces, d) potential opportunities for increased access to prohibited items such as weapons, alcohol ordrugs, and e) likelihood for behaviors that may be difficult to regulate, supervise, or monitor.
When communities gather in large group settings, it is important to define community agreements through a process that involves members of the community. The end product is a clear document that describes the community expectations for being together by a) providing consistent messaging and teaching, b) connecting extracurricular events as an extension of the school environment, c) emphasizing positive prosocial behaviors that are reflective of the values of the school community and d) providing explicit ways to ask for help or report concerns. It is equally important to intentionally foster positive relationships across community members, including those from groups least likely to benefit from existing educational systems.
Last Updated:
September 6, 2023
Centering Equity in Data-Based Decision-Making: Considerations and Recommendations for Leadership Teams
data-based-decision-making
equity
school-wide
Assessment
Screening
TIPS
The focus of this guide is on supporting school, district, and state education leadership teams in centering equity in their data-using culture and data-based decision-making processes to redesign and transform systems for equitable health and learning. It includes specific companion dialogue guides to support teams in implementing practices and practical strategies to center equity in all of their work—including the ways in which they gather, analyze, and use data in their school-wide whole-person work. ©2023 WestEd. All rights reserved.This document was published by WestEd and is supported by funds provided by the U.S. Department of Education cooperative agreements with the Center to Improve Social and Emotional Learning and School Safety at WestEd (S424B180004) and the Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (H326S180001). Its content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the funder, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Suggested Citation is included in the document.
Last Updated:
September 5, 2023
Improving Tier 3 Implementation and Outcomes in a High-Needs School
students-with-disabilities
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Assessment
Behavior
FBA/BIP/BSP
Fidelity
This brief summarizes a model demonstration examining the impact of both (a) improved Tier 3 implementation fidelity, as measured by Tiered Implementation Fidelity (TFI) and the Self-Assessment Survey (SAS) 4.0, and (b) an improved implementation of individual behavior support practices in a high-needs elementary school in a rural area in the northeast. The information learned from this model demonstration may assist others working in and supporting schools in similar settings.
Last Updated:
July 31, 2023
Instructional and Restorative Alternatives to Exclusionary Discipline: A Guide to Implementing the Five Components of the Inclusive Skill-building Learning Approach (ISLA)
equity
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Alternatives to Suspension
Climate
Implementation
Restorative Practices
In this brief, we outline the five components of the ISLA model, as well as steps that school and district teams can take to begin implementing these practices within their positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) framework.
Last Updated:
July 21, 2023
Intentionally Intensify Classroom Practices to Support Students with Disabilities
classroom-pbis
students-with-disabilities
equity
Behavior
Fidelity
Research
Special education
This brief addresses two evaluation questions: 1. What are the effects of supporting educators to intentionally intensify their practice on their overall implementation of targeted classroom practices (i.e., prompting, engaging, and praising)?
2. What are the effects of educators intentionally intensifying their classroom practices on the behaviors of students with disabilities?
Last Updated:
June 20, 2023
Feasibility of PBIS in a Therapeutic Group Home
family
juvenile-justice
students-with-disabilities
Alternative Settings
Community
Fidelity
Implementation
The success of PBIS in typical schools has led to interest in PBIS for alternative programs, including residential programs. In this brief, we describe PBIS as implemented in a therapeutic treatment home for adolescents with mental health needs. The PBIS framework enabled the program to add Tier 1 supports to increase consistency throughout the home, and to use behavioral data to integrate supports across tiers. We report fidelity scores across years of implementation as well as informal data reflecting staff and youth perceptions of PBIS.
Last Updated:
May 18, 2023
PBIS in a Secure Juvenile Justice Setting
juvenile-justice
restraintseclusion
school-wide
Alignment
Alternative Settings
Fidelity
Implementation
Documented benefits of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in typical settings has led to interest in the feasibility of PBIS in alternative program settings, including juvenile justice programs. In this model demonstration report, we describe how one juvenile justice program implemented PBIS at Tiers 1, 2, and 3, and present fidelity scores for each tier across years of implementation. PBIS was used throughout the program, in residential areas (dorm units, cafeteria, recreation, etc.) as well as in the school program within the facility.
Last Updated:
May 18, 2023
School Mental Health Integration: Lessons Learned from Implementation of the Interconnected Systems Framework across Two Local Education Agencies
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Coaches and district leaders can use this brief to support their efforts of aligning and integrating School Mental Health (SMH) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). The experiences of two districts are described to provide context in the application of the Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF).
Last Updated:
April 20, 2023
PBIS Adaptations in Alternative Programs
juvenile-justice
Alternative Settings
Behavior
Residential
In this brief, we present results from a facilitated discussion held at the 2022 PBIS Leadership Forum focused on modifications needed to PBIS in alternative programs, and examples of those modifications. In addition, we discuss how those modifications maintain fidelity to essential elements, and provide recommendations based on our discussion.
Last Updated:
April 20, 2023
Measuring Fidelity of Core Features of Tier 2 Systems and Practices in Schools
coaching
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Behavior
Evaluation
Fidelity
Implementation
Even when schools are implementing Tier 1 systems and practices with high fidelity, some students need more targeted and systematic support. Tier 2 practices provide students with an additional layer of rapid and efficient behavior support. However, school teams will need to regularly measure the fidelity of both core features of these Tier 2 practices and the Tier 2 systems supporting those practices. This brief describes the core features of Tier 2 systems and practices and provides examples of researcher-developed measures used to assess them.
Last Updated:
March 23, 2023
Systematic Screening in Tiered Systems: Lessons Learned at the Elementary School Level
data-based-decision-making
districtstate-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Action plan
Assessment
Behavior
Research
This brief presents outcomes across elementary schools on their use of a social/emotional screener as part of their data-decision process.
Last Updated:
March 23, 2023
Lessons Learned from District and School-site Leaders Conducting Systematic Screening
data-based-decision-making
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Action plan
Administrator
PBIS Foundations
Research
In this brief, results of an online survey of 165 leadership team members from 27 elementary schools representing five school districts from three geographic regions across the United States are presented. All schools were at different stages of implementing an integrated tiered system of support. Implications for practice are discussed.
Last Updated:
March 23, 2023
School-based Screening for Student Substance Misuse
data-based-decision-making
opioid-crisis-and-substance-misuse
school-wide
Alternatives to Suspension
Assessment
Behavior
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
The effects of the opioid crisis have been felt across the country, and many educators are seeking ways to be proactive around their students’ needs. An important step toward this goal is identifying students who need support. The Center on PBIS website (PBIS.org) provides multiple resources with provide general guidance on screener selection and implementation. This practice brief is intended to provide educators with more specific, supplemental direction for substance misuse screening and a brief overview of how such screening can be combined with brief intervention and referral to treatment.
Last Updated:
March 22, 2023
Systematic Screening: Practicalities & Considerations
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Screening
Tier 1
In this practice brief, we share highlights from the 2022 PBIS Leadership Forum facilitated discussion: Systematic Screening: Practicalities & Considerations. Specifically, we describe what is meant by “systematic screening,” explain the importance of systematic screening, provide information on resources to get started with systematic screening efforts, and summarize some questions addressed during the discussion.
Last Updated:
March 9, 2023
Organizing Supporting Adults to Implement PCBS
classroom-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Academics
Behavior
Implementation
Tier 1
There is a strong research base for practices associated with Positive Classroom Behavior Supports (PCBS). Much of this information can be found in the Center on PBIS publications from the classroom section of the website (https://www.pbis.org/publications/all-publications#classroom-pbis). An ongoing concern in the field is how to support educators in selecting and implementing with fidelity, the evidence-based practices matched to student needs. The classroom strand at the recent 2022 PBIS Leadership Forum provided information on high leverage social-emotional-behavioral practices. Strategies were provided for integrating academic and behavior supports. Additionally, specific ideas were shared for supporting students with disabilities within the classroom setting.
Last Updated:
February 6, 2023
Addressing Confidentiality while Supporting the Social-Emotional-Behavioral Needs of Students within Schools
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Administrator
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Training
This guide provides recommendations and strategies for addressing confidentiality as teams work together in an interconnected system within schools. It is not intended to provide comprehensive legal guidance, rather to facilitate discussion and decision making to ensure students get the supports they need.
Last Updated:
January 24, 2023
IES MTSS-B Trial: Key Takeaways for District and State Leaders
school-wide
Implementation
Policy
Research
Tier 1
The purpose of this brief is to review the latest randomized controlled trial (RCT) examining effects of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), an example of a multi-tiered system of support for behavior (MTSS-B), on a range of student outcomes. The study explored one approach to implementing PBIS and focused on students’ behavioral and academic outcomes. Although it did not identify positive behavioral and academic effects for all students, students with the most behavior needs saw improved reading scores and decreased rates of disruptive behavior. Other important outcomes, including those related to classroom management and school climate, also saw some improvements. We share findings and key takeaways from this new study, in the context of the broader research literature, to guide local educational agency (LEAs) and state educational agencies (SEAs) in their use of MTSS to improve student outcomes.
Last Updated:
January 18, 2023
Supporting and Responding to Educators’ Classroom PBIS Implementation Needs: Guide to Classroom Systems and Data
classroom-pbis
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Assessment
Evaluation
Fidelity
Tier 1
This guide is intended to be used in conjunction with the practices guide: Supporting and Responding to Students’ Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Needs: Evidence-Based Practices for Educators (Center on PBIS, 2022). It provides updated guidance on how to (a) develop systems to support educators’ implementation of evidence-based classroom practices and (b) use data to guide the development of implementation supports.
Last Updated:
January 6, 2023
The Use of Level Systems in Alternative Settings: Fidelity, Design, and Alignment with PBIS
coaching
juvenile-justice
school-wide
Alignment
Alternative Settings
Behavior
Fidelity
Level systems are a widely used in alternative settings. When these settings adopt PBIS, it is important to consider design, implementation, and alignment of level systems with PBIS principles and practices. This Practice Brief stems from our Facilitated Discussion at the 2021 PBIS Leadership Forum. We describe themes that emerged from that discussion, and provide specific recommendations for aligning level systems with PBIS.
Last Updated:
January 5, 2023
Why Implement Tier 1 PBIS for Students with Disabilities? What Does Research Say?
students-with-disabilities
restraintseclusion
school-wide
Behavior
Discipline
Research
Residential
This brief summarizes empirical research on the effects of Tier 1 PBIS for students with disabilities. In general, when schools implement PBIS with fidelity, students with disabilities experience: (a) improved SEB outcomes and (b) reduced exclusionary discipline (i.e., office discipline referrals, suspensions, restraint, seclusion). Given the promising empirically-supported effects of Tier 1 PBIS, we recommend schools continue to prioritize Tier 1 supports that are inclusive, robust, and supportive of all students, including students with disabilities.
Last Updated:
October 24, 2022
Supporting Schools During and After Crisis: A Guide to Supporting States, Districts, Schools, Educators, and Students through a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Framework
crisis-recovery
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Academics
Alignment
Behavior
Systems Alignment
This guide describes the use of a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework, like positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), to restart classrooms and schools in a manner
that all students, families, and educators are supported effectively, efficiently, and relevantly. This guide is not a primer on MTSS or PBIS. (For a basic introduction, visit PBIS.org.6) This guide is a set of considerations for experienced leadership teams to enhance, adjust, or adapt state, district, school, and classroom action plans to (a) meet their needs during the phases of crisis response and recovery and (b) return to a safe and positive learning environment.
Last Updated:
October 21, 2022
When Do Schools Receive Tier 2 and 3 PBIS Training?
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Implementation
Research
Systems Alignment
Tier 2
This evaluation brief identifies the average time between initial PBIS training at each tier and identifies criteria state-level leadership teams use to determine readiness for Tier 2 and 3 training. The sample includes 2,488 U.S. schools across five states trained between the 2005-06 and 2018-19 school years. Findings indicate that the average time between Tier 2 and 3 training was shorter compared to Tier 1 and Tier 2. In addition, state-level leadership teams used a variety of policies and procedures for determining school readiness for training at Tiers 2 and 3.
Last Updated:
October 12, 2022
Collecting Fidelity Data to Support and Sustain PBIS/MTSS in Schools
data-based-decision-making
districtstate-pbis
Action plan
Assessment
Evaluation
Fidelity
Brief for states and district on using fidelity data to guide action planning.
Last Updated:
September 28, 2022
Establishing a Rural Regional Cohort: Supporting Fidelity of PBIS Implementation in Rural Schools
coaching
districtstate-pbis
Community
Evaluation
Fidelity
Implementation
This demonstration features the collaborative work of a state-funded project matching university-based PBIS trainers with school level implementers in a rural setting. Strategies and lessons learned when implementing PBIS with fidelity during challenging times is shared. The information learned from this regional example highlights the need for considering adaptations to support the culture and context of rural settings while maintaining robust levels of fidelity and sustaining momentum for continued implementation.
Last Updated:
September 22, 2022
Strategies for De-escalating Student Behavior in the Classroom
classroom-pbis
school-wide
restraintseclusion
Behavior
Discipline
Implementation
Social skills
This practice brief provides practical, research-based strategies educators can use to de-escalate challenging student behavior in the classroom. Despite the development of supportive, safe, and predictable school environments, students may, at times, become agitated, and their behavior may escalate to unsafe levels. With some advance planning, educators can reduce reliance on reactive strategies, such as punitive or exclusionary practices (e.g., restraint, seclusion, suspension, expulsion) in favor of safer, more instructive, and inclusive approaches.
Last Updated:
September 20, 2022
PBIS Implementation in Rural Schools in the U.S.
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Evaluation
Fidelity
Implementation
Rural
The demonstration of positive impact has accelerated the adoption of the PBIS framework across the country in different school settings. The purpose of this evaluation brief is to provide an initial descriptive snapshot of the current status of PBIS implementation in rural schools.
Last Updated:
August 17, 2022
Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders Through School-Wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
classroom-pbis
students-with-disabilities
school-wide
Behavior
Implementation
PBIS Foundations
Social skills
Students with disabilities benefit from positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS; Meyer et al., 2021). The use of schoolwide and classwide PBIS shows promise in helping educators to integrate evidence-based practices for the benefit of all students, including those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The purpose of this brief is to provide educators with a quick and easy resource for identifying effective practices for supporting all students, especially those diagnosed with ASD within general education contexts.
Last Updated:
August 16, 2022
A Literature Review of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports for Students with Extensive Support Needs
students-with-disabilities
Evaluation
Research
Special education
In response to two calls for continued research focused on PBIS and students with extensive support needs, researchers from the TIES Center and Center on PBIS conducted this literature review to summarize the current literature. This report summarizes the characteristics of the literature and implications for practice and future research initiatives.
Last Updated:
August 12, 2022
Creating a Classroom Teaching Matrix
classroom-pbis
school-wide
Behavior
PBIS Foundations
Social skills
Tier 1
Establishing positive classroom expectations, or norms, that reflect the shared values of a classroom community (i.e., educators, students, families) is an important step toward creating a positive teaching and learning environment. This brief provides guidance for creating and using a classroom teaching matrix to explicitly identify, define, and teach (a) predictable classroom routines, (b) positive classroom expectations, and (c) critical social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) skills.
Last Updated:
August 12, 2022
Centering Equity within the PBIS Framework: Overview and Evidence of Effectiveness
equity
school-wide
Climate
Discipline
Ethnicity
Evaluation
Racial and ethnic inequities in school discipline are widespread and persistent, even in schools implementing PBIS with fidelity. Yet integrating components of a multicomponent equity-centered approach into existing tiered frameworks is showing promise for improving equity in student outcomes. This brief describes the Center on PBIS’s 5-Point Equity Approach and the evidence for its positive effects on discipline disproportionality.
Last Updated:
July 21, 2022
Psychometric Properties of Behavior Screening Tools
data-based-decision-making
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Assessment
Behavior
Screening
Psychometric properties reflect the overall quality of behavioral screening tools. Understanding such concepts helps you select a behavioral screener that best fits your district or school context and provides accurate and valuable information for data-based decision-making. This brief describes key elements of reliable screening tools.
Last Updated:
July 19, 2022
Providing Access to School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities
students-with-disabilities
school-wide
Special education
This brief discusses ways to design PBIS systems that are accessible to all students. It describes the importance of including all students in PBIS structures, gives practical strategies to help schools achieve this goal, and includes the story of a student who benefited from full access to his school’s PBIS system.
Last Updated:
July 19, 2022
Tier 3 District-Level Systems Guide
school-wide
Behavior
FBA/BIP/BSP
Implementation
Intensive
The purpose of this guide is to assist Tier 3 or MTSS District Teams in supporting school level and student level implementation of Tier 3 supports. These system features include procedures for teaming, professional development/training, coaching, data systems and evaluation, student support provisions and student and family engagement.
Last Updated:
June 16, 2022
Drilling Down District Data: Analyzing Reach and Fidelity of PBIS Implementation
data-based-decision-making
districtstate-pbis
Action plan
Assessment
Fidelity
This brief provides district PBIS leadership teams a framework to examine school-level fidelity and self-assessment data to guide resource, professional development, and technical assistance decision making.
Last Updated:
June 10, 2022
PBIS Implementation in Rural Schools: Voices from the Field
coaching
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Action plan
Community
Evaluation
Implementation
This brief summarizes themes from interviews with seven district- and school-level leaders who were asked to share experiences and lessons learned while implementing PBIS in their rural school(s). The results offer a starting place for discussion on what is important to consider when implementing PBIS in rural school settings.
Last Updated:
June 7, 2022
Wise Use of Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) to Achieve Equity in School Discipline
equity
Alignment
Climate
Discipline
Ethnicity
Disproportionality in exclusionary school discipline is a longstanding challenge in general and special education. To reduce disproportionality in discipline in a way that produces measurable results, federal law provides a mechanism referred to as Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS). Whether a school district has been cited for significant disproportionality, is out of compliance, or is voluntarily directing funds to reducing disproportionality in discipline, this brief provides background on CEIS and outlines best practices for how state, district, and building administrators can invest these funds most effectively to achieve equity in school discipline.
Last Updated:
June 6, 2022
Remote Instruction as Suspension: Concerns and Guidance
classroom-pbis
students-with-disabilities
school-wide
Alternatives to Suspension
Behavior
Discipline
Special education
Removing students from the classroom and placing them in remote instruction for their behavior is an emerging form of discipline (Jones, 2020). The purpose of this brief is to describe this form of discipline, examine its implications and potential negative impacts, and provide guiding principles for improving behavior through evidence-based approaches.
Last Updated:
June 3, 2022
Beginning to Address Equity in Tier 1 Systems
equity
Tier 1
Equity work has long been associated with the notion that educational outcomes will improve if practitioners provide individual support to the "right students," typically meaning students of color, students from marginalized groups, or students underserved by our social institutions. While well-intentioned, this approach is shortsighted and ignores the role of systems, including education, in outcomes. This brief explains how school teams can begin to address long-standing systemic inequities via PBIS core components to create and sustain change.
Last Updated:
May 26, 2022
How School Teams Use Data to Make Effective Decisions: Team-Initiated Problem Solving (TIPS)
data-based-decision-making
school-climate-transformation-grant-sctg
school-wide
Action plan
Assessment
Fidelity
Implementation
With multiple sources of information available, knowing how to use data efficiently and effectively with limited resources is critical to the successful implementation of schoolwide, classroom, and individual interventions. In this practice guide, we describe a scientifically-based approach for data-based decision-making called Team-Initiated Problem Solving (TIPS) that includes guidance for school-based teams on (a) the foundations needed to run more effective meetings, (b) a process for using data to identify school needs and goals for change as well as for planning practical and effective solutions, and (c) a process for using, monitoring, and adapting solutions.
Last Updated:
April 8, 2022
School Refusal: Assessment and Intervention
high-school-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Behavior
This brief provides an overview of how to identify and determine why a student may be avoiding or refusing to attend school, and ways that schoolwide positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) teams can help to assess and address school refusal. We will introduce a research-based framework to engage in problem-solving to better support students who exhibit school refusal that can supplement more detailed reviews of assessment and intervention (e.g., Kearney, 2007).
Last Updated:
April 6, 2022
Promoting Positive Discipline Approaches and Reducing Restraint and Seclusion: The American School for the Deaf’s Model of Success
students-with-disabilities
restraintseclusion
school-wide
Alignment
Alternative Settings
Discipline
Evaluation
This brief describes a school’s transformation from using ineffective and punitive disciplinary practices to implementing effective and proactive responses to behavior by installing the PBIS framework in a unique setting. Specifically, this demonstration highlights the work of the PBIS school leadership team at the American School for the Deaf (ASD) and describes ASD’s use of PBIS strategies in alignment with the Six Core Strategies© to reduce their use of restraint and seclusion.
Last Updated:
April 6, 2022
Considerations for Conducting Virtual Functional Behavior Assessments & Behavior Intervention Plans (FBAs & BIPs)
family
Behavior
FBA/BIP/BSP
Intensive
Tier 3
This brief provides considerations for conducting and implementing functional behavior assessments (FBAs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) using virtual technology.
Last Updated:
March 9, 2022
Is Tier 1 PBIS Feasible and Effective in Rural, High Poverty Secondary Schools? Initial Examination of a Model Demonstration
coaching
data-based-decision-making
Behavior
Community
Evaluation
Implementation
To better understand the supports needed to positively impact student outcomes, the Center on PBIS has been examining several model demonstrations of PBIS implementation in schools residing within high need Local Education Agencies (LEAs). In particular, this brief provides an initial examination on the impact of PBIS implementation in two rural, high poverty, and majority Black/African American schools at the secondary level (5-12th grade) from a high need LEA. The information learned from this model demonstration may assist others working in and supporting schools in similar settings.
Last Updated:
February 18, 2022
Tier 3 Student-level Systems Guide
students-with-disabilities
restraintseclusion
FBA/BIP/BSP
Individual
Intensive
Special education
Tier 3 Student Level Systems support all students who are not responding to Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports and would benefit from intensive strategies matched to individual student needs. Student challenges may include behaviors that range from disruptive behaviors to aggression (externalizing) and/or suicidal ideation, depression, or anxiety (internalizing). These behaviors might be impacted by trauma or crisis situations (temporary or permanent) or driven by mental health needs. Tier 3 behavioral supports may be helpful for any student, no matter the (dis)ability, who needs support to meet intensive social, emotional, and behavioral needs. This guide can assist all educators with understanding the systems that must be established to support students with intensive needs.
Last Updated:
January 31, 2022
Tier 3 School-level Systems Guide
school-wide
Behavior
FBA/BIP/BSP
Intensive
Tier 3
The purpose of this practice guide is to assist Tier 3 Systems Teams, or combined Advanced Tiers (Tier 2 and 3) Systems Teams, in developing the foundational Tier 3 school-level systems features.
Last Updated:
January 31, 2022
Tier 3 Brief Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) Guide
school-wide
Assessment
Behavior
Evaluation
FBA/BIP/BSP
The purpose of this guide is to describe how school-based personnel can build and implement a continuum of function-based supports at Tier 3 that are designed to more effectively meet the needs of a broader range of students who struggle with persistent challenging behavior. This guide is intended to be a resource for individuals and teams with a working knowledge of Tier 3 who regularly design and implement supports for students with intensive needs.
Last Updated:
January 31, 2022
Tier 3 Comprehensive Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) Guide
school-wide
Assessment
Behavior
Evaluation
FBA/BIP/BSP
The purpose of this practice guide is to help teams conduct a comprehensive functional behavior assessment, develop a function-linked behavior intervention/support plan, and make data-based decisions. Functional behavior assessments help teams to identify the relation of targeted serious and intense (i.e., challenging) behavior to the environmental events that occur before and after the behavior is performed.
Last Updated:
January 31, 2022
How are Schools Using the Parent and Personnel School Climate Surveys?
data-based-decision-making
family
school-wide
Climate
Social relationships
Tier 1
When school personnel and parents complete school climate surveys, results can inform team action planning to improve perceptions of school climate. This brief is intended to guide how districts and schools collect and disaggregate school climate data at the personnel and parent level to support data-based decision making.
Last Updated:
January 31, 2022
Function-Based Support: An Overview
data-based-decision-making
family
school-wide
Behavior
FBA/BIP/BSP
Individual
Intensive
This brief describes how educators use a function-based approach to (a) prevent contextually inappropriate behaviors and (b) teach and encourage social, emotional, and behavioral skills throughout the PBIS continuum of support. In addition, this brief highlights critical features of effective functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and behavior support plans (BSP).
Last Updated:
January 7, 2022
The Whys and Hows of Screening: Frequently Asked Questions for Families
data-based-decision-making
family
school-wide
PBIS Foundations
Screening
Tier 1
Using academic and behavior screening tools, educators actively look for students who might need extra help to be successful in school. This practice brief helps families understand the logic and steps taken as part of school-wide universal screening, and answers some frequently asked questions about systematic behavior
screening.
Last Updated:
January 7, 2022
Interpreting Universal Behavior Screening Data: Questions to Consider
coaching
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Assessment
Behavior
Implementation
Screening
Universal behavior screening data can be used with other school data to provide educators with valuable information about the overall level of students’ performance at Tier 1 as well as an indicator of students who may need additional supports. In this brief, we offer guiding questions to interpret screening data in a three-step process:
examine student performance for the school as a whole, consider teacher-delivered, low-intensity supports, and make decisions for students who might require Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports.
Last Updated:
January 7, 2022
Installing a Universal Behavior Screening Tool: Questions to Consider
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Assessment
Behavior
Evaluation
Screening
Systematic screening is one proactive way educators can identify students who might need additional support, even when Tier 1 practices are being implemented with fidelity. In this brief, we offer guiding questions for installing a universal behavior screening tool in your school or district centered around five topics: setting up structures, providing professional learning, before your screening window opens, during your screening window, and after your screening window closes.
Last Updated:
January 7, 2022
Strengthening Family Participation in Addressing Behavior in an IEP
data-based-decision-making
students-with-disabilities
family
Assessment
Behavior
Discipline
FBA/BIP/BSP
The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) document is a legal plan for special education created by a team that includes educators and family members. The IEP contains goals that promote student success, and, if needed, might include goals on ways to improve behavior. As families might find it helpful to plan ahead for IEP meetings, this brief is designed to help families prepare for an IEP meeting with tips to help strengthen the IEP team planning for any needed behavioral goals and supports.
Last Updated:
December 10, 2021
Helping Families Prepare for an IEP Meeting
students-with-disabilities
family
Academics
Behavior
Individual
Special education
The IEP document is a legal plan for special education which is created by a team of educators and the child's family. This team meets yearly to create an IEP that provides information about the specifically designed instruction, related services, and other supports for the child. This tip sheet shares some ideas in how families can prepare for the IEP meeting to promote full participation in their child's education program.
Last Updated:
December 9, 2021
Questions for Families to Consider when Concerned about their Child’s Behavior
students-with-disabilities
family
Assessment
Behavior
Individual
Intensive
Are you concerned about your child’s behavior in school? This document is intended to assist families of children with disabilities that already have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in asking questions to learn more about their child’s behavior in school. Some examples of questions families can ask their school are included and organized by the level of behavior concern, followed by a list of additional resources to consider.
Last Updated:
December 8, 2021
Are Fewer Students with Disabilities Suspended When Schools Implement PBIS?
students-with-disabilities
Alternatives to Suspension
Discipline
Evaluation
Outcome
This evaluation brief explores the relationship between (a) schools’ implementation of Tier 1 (universal) support within a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework and (b) the proportion of students with disabilities suspended.
Last Updated:
November 16, 2021
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in the Classroom
classroom-pbis
Behavior
PBIS Foundations
Tier 1
Tier 2
This guide provides guidance to educators implementing positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) in the classroom across the continuum of student need. Educators regularly provide a range of supports for students in the classroom—from universal supports for all students to intensive and individualized supports for a few students. This guide will help educators familiar with PBIS organize classroom supports for preventing, teaching, and responding to students’ social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) needs across the continuum.
Last Updated:
November 2, 2021
Supporting Child and Student Social, Emotional, Behavioral, and Mental Health Needs
districtstate-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Alignment
Behavior
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Systems Alignment
This US Department of Education Resource "highlights seven key challenges to providing school- or program-based mental health support across early childhood, K–12 schools, and higher education settings, and presents seven corresponding recommendations. The appendix provides additional useful information, including (a) numerous examples corresponding to the recommendations highlighting implementation efforts throughout the country; (b) a list of federal resource centers; (c) a list of resources to assist educators (teachers, providers, and administrators) in implementing the recommendations; and (d) guidance on existing programs that can support social, emotional and mental health services for students."
Last Updated:
October 20, 2021
Remote Instruction Strategy Matrix for Collaboration with Families
family
Academics
Behavior
Implementation
Social relationships
Successful partnerships between schools and parents/families benefit the academic success and social-emotional development of students. The Remote Instruction Strategy Matrix for Collaboration with Families is designed for educators (e.g., teachers, administrators, school counselors) to use as they collaborate with parents or families to be used within a continuum of supports based on available technology. This allows schools to coordinate efforts that match the regularity and depth of communication and supports based on identified student needs.
Last Updated:
October 14, 2021
Restraint and Seclusion Alternatives in All U.S. States and Territories: A Review of Legislation and Policies
students-with-disabilities
districtstate-pbis
restraintseclusion
Discipline
Evaluation
Policy
This evaluation brief (a) describes methods of a systematic review of state policy and legislation on R/S, (b) summarizes how R/S is addressed in state policy and legislation, (c) discusses the extent to which policy and legislation emphasizes alternatives to R/S, and (d) based on this review, provides considerations for preventing or reducing R/S, such as organizing a continuum of evidence-based prevention practices within a positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) framework to address the use of R/S.
Last Updated:
August 30, 2021
Using a PBIS Framework: Working Smarter, Not Harder in Rural Schools
coaching
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Action plan
Climate
Evaluation
Tier 1
Given some of the barriers faced by schools, especially those in rural areas, the Working Smarter Matrix matches interventions with current PBIS resources to assist a school team in using an efficient and effective problem-solving process. As part of the problem-solving process and after PBIS teams have identified and analyzed the problem, they can use this matrix to select an appropriate intervention approach and locate corresponding, hyperlinked resources to support that approach.
Last Updated:
August 2, 2021
Discussing Race, Racism, and Important Current Events with Students: A Guide with Lesson Plans and Resources
classroom-pbis
equity
school-wide
Climate
Ethnicity
PBIS Foundations
Tier 1
This guide is intended to increase the frequency and quality of conversations about race, racism, and current events regarding race in K-12 classrooms to support students and provide voice and self-reflection. It includes recommendations and tips for creating statements of support, preparing for and facilitating constructive classroom discussions, addressing harmful statements, and designing lesson plans and units for ongoing learning.
Last Updated:
July 26, 2021
Enhancing Family-School Collaboration with Diverse Families
equity
family
school-wide
Administrator
Climate
Community
Ethnicity
This brief is designed to help inform school leaders about how intentional collaboration with diverse families can be created through environments in which educators work alongside families on behalf of the students they serve. Recommendations for action are included.
Last Updated:
June 23, 2021
Early Childhood Program-wide PBS Benchmarks of Quality (EC-BOQ) Cultural Responsiveness Companion
early-childhood-pbis
equity
Climate
The EC-BOQ Cultural Responsiveness Companion is a resource for coaches and teams implementing the Pyramid Model to improve the fit of their Pyramid systems with the needs of children and their families. Teams may use this tool either during the initial Pyramid Model implementation to build cultural responsiveness into systems from the beginning or after initial implementation to enhance equity within existing systems.
Last Updated:
May 27, 2021
Leveraging Short Term Funding to Build Long Term Capacity
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
equity
Action plan
Implementation
Systems Alignment
PBIS Foundations
Recommendations for spending American Rescue Plan Act education funds.
Last Updated:
May 26, 2021
Promising Practices for Improving the Middle to High School Transition for Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
students-with-disabilities
high-school-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Social relationships
Special education
Systems Alignment
Tier 3
In this practice brief, we describe several current examples of approaches that are aimed at improving outcomes for students entering high school. Additionally, we present strategies to disrupt the negative trajectory for students with EBD, who seldom receive coordinated, individualized supports during the critical transition from middle to high school.
Last Updated:
May 10, 2021
Obtaining Stakeholder Feedback to Improve the Middle to High School Transition
family
high-school-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Action plan
Implementation
Outcome
Systems Alignment
In this practice brief, we explore feedback from a group of eighth and ninth grade students, families, and educators on what has been challenging, what has been missing, and what is needed during the transition from middle to high school for students with emotional and behavioral disorders. We also discuss the process for gathering stakeholder feedback and some feasible next steps for schools and districts who are interested in utilizing such valuable input for improving their systems of support.
Last Updated:
May 10, 2021
Advanced Tiers in High School: Lessons Learned from Initial Implementation
data-based-decision-making
high-school-pbis
school-wide
Implementation
Tier 2
Tier 3
An increasing number of high schools have adopted Tier 1 PBIS; however, implementation of advanced tiers of PBIS in high schools is less common and specific guidance is scarce. To address this need and better understand the level of support needed to successfully implement advanced tiers of PBIS at the high school level, the National Center on PBIS is conducting a model demonstration with a cohort of four high schools. The intent of this brief is to share lessons learned related to strengths and challenges that have influenced the initial implementation of advanced tiers of support for schools and lessons learned for district leaders and trainers to consider when supporting high schools.
Last Updated:
May 3, 2021
PBIS Academy Model Demo Brief: Impact of Statewide Support Model on High-Needs Schools
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Academics
Behavior
Discipline
Evaluation
An evaluation of a state-wide support model targeting high-needs schools across the state of Massachusetts. This evaluation brief reviews the state-wide model in addition to reviewing both discipline and academic outcomes.
Last Updated:
May 3, 2021
Selecting a Universal Behavior Screening Tool: Questions to Consider
data-based-decision-making
school-wide
Screening
In this practice brief, we offer five questions for you to consider as you decide which systematic screening tool to adopt, install, and sustain. These questions are intended to support you to identify your available resources and your screening needs.
Last Updated:
May 3, 2021
Guidance for Systematic Screening: Lessons Learned from Practitioners
data-based-decision-making
Screening
Tier 1
In this brief, we describe experiences of three school districts in various U.S. geographic regions as they installed screening tools as part of their screening processes. Education leaders have generously shared their advice for practitioners throughout the nation. We share five lessons learned from district leaders, including some selected quotes (see boxes). Leaders’ insights may be helpful for educators already involved in systematic screening as well as those who are newer to the process.
Last Updated:
May 3, 2021
Returning to School: Considerations for Students With the Most Intensive Behavioral Needs, A Guide to Supporting Students With Disabilities, Their Families, and Educators
classroom-pbis
students-with-disabilities
school-wide
Behavior
Intensive
Social relationships
Social skills
This document is a set of strategies and key practices to restart classrooms and schools in a manner that students, their families, and educators can use effectively, efficiently, and relevantly in the current climate.
Last Updated:
April 20, 2021
Responding to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak through PBIS
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
classroom-pbis
Social relationships
Trauma
Climate
One of the key principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is to focus on building prosocial skills, not simply attempting to eliminate challenging or problem behavior. We encourage all schools to continue that focus, as well as other key principles of PBIS, as you address the COVID-19 pandemic. The following are a few simple recommendations educators can embed across a continuum of supports.
Last Updated:
April 15, 2021
Responding to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak through PBIS (Versión en español)
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
classroom-pbis
Social relationships
Trauma
Climate
One of the key principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is to focus on building prosocial skills, not simply attempting to eliminate challenging or problem behavior. We encourage all schools to continue that focus, as well as other key principles of PBIS, as you address the COVID-19 pandemic. The following are a few simple recommendations educators can embed across a continuum of supports.
Last Updated:
April 15, 2021
PBIS Cultural Responsiveness Field Guide: Resources for Trainers and Coaches
equity
Action plan
Ethnicity
Tier 1
This field guide outlines an integrated framework to embed equity efforts into school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports (SWPBIS) by aligning culturally responsive practices to the core components of SWPBIS. The goal of using this guide is to make school systems more responsive to the cultures and communities that they serve. This guide is part of a 5-point intervention approach for enhancing equity in student outcomes within a SWPBIS approach.
Last Updated:
March 29, 2021
Why Prioritize Behavior Support?
districtstate-pbis
school-wide
Administrator
Behavior
PBIS Foundations
Policy
This brief describes why it's critical to continue to prioritize behavior support in addition to academic, social, and emotional supports. Without effective behavior support, research has documented that students and educators experience negative outcomes. With effective behavior support implemented within a PBIS framework, rigorous research has demonstrated that students and educators experience positive outcomes.
Last Updated:
March 25, 2021
PBIS Forum 17 Practice Brief: Facility-wide PBIS Implementation as Viewed by Roundtable Participants and From the Field
juvenile-justice
Implementation
Secure Care
Systems Alignment
Participants in the 2017 PBIS Forum's juvenile justice strand were invited to a Roundtable discussion on issues related to PBIS implementation in juvenile justice settings. Attendees chose one of four topical small groups to share ideas about commonly-asked questions from practitioners who are considering or implementing PBIS in juvenile justice settings. Highlights of the small group discussions are presented in this Practice Brief.
Last Updated:
March 25, 2021
A State Guide for Returning to School During and After Crisis: A Guide to Supporting States, Districts, Schools, Educators, and Students through a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Framework
crisis-recovery
districtstate-pbis
Academics
Alignment
Behavior
Systems Alignment
This abbreviated state guide describes the use of a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework to support students, families, and educators during the transitions back to school during and following the global pandemic in a manner that prioritizes their health and safety, social and emotional needs, and behavioral and academic growth.
Last Updated:
March 5, 2021
A School Guide for Returning to School During and After Crisis: A Guide to Supporting Schools, Educators, and Students through a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Framework
crisis-recovery
classroom-pbis
Academics
Alignment
Behavior
Systems Alignment
This abbreviated school guide describes the use of a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework to support students, families, and educators during the transitions back to school during and following the global pandemic in a manner that prioritizes their health and safety, social and emotional needs, and behavioral and academic growth.
Last Updated:
March 5, 2021
A District Guide for Returning to School During and After Crisis: A Guide to Supporting Districts, Schools, Educators, and Students through a Multi- Tiered Systems of Support Framework
crisis-recovery
districtstate-pbis
Academics
Alignment
Behavior
Systems Alignment
This abbreviated district guide describes the use of a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework to support students, families, and educators during the transitions back to school during and following the global pandemic in a manner that prioritizes their health and safety, social and emotional needs, and behavioral and academic growth.
Last Updated:
March 5, 2021
PBIS High School Implementation: Leveraging Features of the PBIS Framework to Support College and Career Readiness
data-based-decision-making
high-school-pbis
school-wide
Academics
Alignment
Systems Alignment
The purpose of this brief is to provide guidance and concrete examples to school personnel of how schools can leverage an existing PBIS framework to support CCR efficiently and effectively.
Last Updated:
March 3, 2021
Building a Culture of Staff Wellness Through Multi-Tiered System of Supports
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Administrator
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Tier 1
Tier 2
The purpose of this brief is to provide recommendations to district and school leadership teams on how the components of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) can be used to prioritize staff health and wellbeing.
Last Updated:
March 2, 2021
Supporting PBIS Implementation Through Phases of Crisis Recovery
crisis-recovery
school-wide
districtstate-pbis
Action plan
Implementation
Trauma
As school and district communities consider options for effectively supporting students, educators, and families during and after a crisis, it can be difficult to identify critical impactful actions. The PBIS framework can serve as a road map to meeting this challenge. This practice brief provides strategies to guide implementation efforts through the various phase of crisis recovery for schools and districts that are (a) getting started or (b) strengthening and maintaining current implementation.
Last Updated:
February 19, 2021
School Mental Health Quality Framework and Tools Alignment Guide
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Alignment
Evaluation
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
The National Center for School Mental Health provides practitioners a summary of PBIS, the Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF), and Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems (CSMHS) tools and resources that districts and schools might use to improve their efforts to support the social-emotional-behavioral health and wellness of every student. The guidance includes consideration for use of high-quality resources, what the frameworks have in common, and how to add value in their use to enhance existing efforts.
Last Updated:
February 19, 2021
Installing an Interconnected Systems Framework at the School Level: Recommendations and Examples to Guide School Leadership Teams, Practitioners and Coaches
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Systems Alignment
This Practice Guide describes and illustrates how schools, with support from coaches and district/community leaders, can benefit from the integration of mental health supports within the PBIS Framework. District/school leaders and coaches can use this information to support their efforts building an Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) of mental health and PBIS. This Guide highlights practical strategies from one school’s successful experiences, including indications of the impact on students’ success while building strong partnerships with families and community partners. Suggested Technical Assistance strategies for coaches are provided.
Last Updated:
February 18, 2021
Installing an Interconnected Systems Framework at the District/Community Level: Recommendations and Strategies for Coaches and District Leaders
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)
Systems Alignment
The Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) is a process to create a more stream-lined approach to school mental health and wellness by connecting all social-emotional-behavioral (SEB) efforts through one system, while eliminating barriers inherent in systems that previously have operated separately. This Practice Guide describes and illustrate how district/community leaders can embed mental health supports within the PBIS framework to create a unified and comprehensive system of social-emotional-behavioral (SEB) supports in schools. One district’s experience building such an Interconnected System Framework (ISF) is portrayed including how they engaged community partners, families and school personnel. Technical assistance strategies and tools for coaches guiding the ISF process in districts/communities and schools are included.
Last Updated:
February 18, 2021
Addressing the Growing Problem of Domestic Sex Trafficking in Minors through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Action plan
Screening
Tier 1
Tier 2
The aim of this practice brief is to highlight the broader issue of domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) and suggest a framework for integrating school-based prevention and intervention strategies through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). We provide a brief review of DMST and connections to PBIS; we then discuss how actions within the PBIS framework may help prevent DMST and provide assistance to student victims and their families.
Last Updated:
January 29, 2021
Effective Instruction as a Protective Factor
classroom-pbis
mental-healthsocial-emotional-well-being
school-wide
Academics
Behavior
Tier 1
Effective instruction can be a protective factor for student wellness, mitigating competing risk factors. In this brief, we highlight key considerations and resources for educators to (a) create an effective context for learning, (b) emphasize appropriate content, and (c) use data-driven instructional practices to increase the likelihood that all students experience academic, social, emotional, and behavioral benefit.
Last Updated:
January 25, 2021