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Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports
Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) is a national model that provides an alternative approach to school suspensions which, according to an analysis by Advocates for Children and Youth, have spiked to record and near-record levels across the State. When effectively implemented, PBIS reduces instances of students acting out, thereby reducing the number of suspensions. Numerous schools in Maryland are using PBIS, and Governor Martin O'Malley, as a candidate, promised to expand PBIS statewide.
PBIS is a proactive, school-wide approach to discipline which focuses on teaching and supporting positive behavior in the entire student body. The system reduces the frequency and intensity of misbehavior by providing students with examples of positive replacement behaviors. After PBIS implementation, the majority of schools report a decrease in problem behavior, an increase in positive social skills, an increase in the overall academic achievement, and an increase in classroom instruction time.
PBIS uses a continuum of support levels to provide both systematic and individualized strategies for achieving positive outcomes and preventing problem behavior. This continuum is typically comprised of three levels of support: universal; group; and individual.
Universal support, provided to all students, is generally effective in managing the 80-90% of students without serious behavior problems. In addition to participating in universal supports, group support is provided to students at risk for problem behavior, generally 5-15% of students. Finally, individual support is provided for the 5% of students with intense problem behavior.
See Advocates for Children and Youth, School Suspensions: Effects and Alternatives (2006).
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