Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports

PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) is a proactive, evidence-based framework used primarily in schools to improve student behavior and overall school climate by teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors rather than relying solely on punishment.

It operates on a tiered system — typically three tiers — where Tier 1 provides universal, school-wide expectations and strategies for all students, Tier 2 offers targeted support for students who need additional guidance, and Tier 3 delivers intensive, individualized interventions for students with the most significant behavioral challenges.

Rather than reacting to misbehavior after the fact, PBIS emphasizes clearly defining expected behaviors, explicitly teaching those behaviors, and consistently acknowledging students when they meet expectations — creating a positive school culture that supports both academic success and social-emotional development.