PTES Embraces Positive Behavior
Pierce Terrace Elementary School (PTES) has taken a big step toward creating a supportive and upbeat learning environment by implementing the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. The school-wide kick-off program officially began on August 21st in the gymnasium. Its goal is to create a positive and consistent school culture that will encourage good behavior and improve students' overall learning experiences.
PBIS is a framework used to improve students social, emotional, and academic outcomes. The program focuses on teaching students’ positive behavior expectations and rewarding them for following guidelines. By emphasizing positive reinforcement, it seeks to create a more conducive learning environment. Danita Roey, PBIS Chair for the current school year, stated that the program “has the potential to reduce discipline referrals, attendance concerns, and teacher burnout.”
“We have tailored the PBIS program to our school to support students to follow four expected behaviors, Respectful, On Task, Always Safe, and Responsible. We believe that with the PBIS program and support from parents, staff, and students, that this will be a successful school year!” stated Roey.
Students who exhibit expected or desirable behaviors throughout the year will be rewarded with Dragon Dollars which are given to all staff members at the beginning of the year, and more are available if needed.
Students will receive prizes and acknowledgment whenever they reach the predetermined number of Dragon Dollars. The PTES Parent Teacher Association (PTA) provides funding and management for the Dragon store. The entire amount of Dragon Dollars that the students have earned for the month will be saved by them. Students will bring their Dragon Dollars to the PBIS cart and use them or save money for a desired item or spend it on prizes determined by how much they earned. Students will also receive an invitation to the quarterly celebration (dance party, etc.) if they meet the expected amount by the conclusion of each quarter.
PBIS meets the unique needs of its diverse student body. The program's main objective is to offer students a solid and encouraging educational environment, especially as they adjust to the demands of military life.
Physical therapist Kris Albrecht stated that the program “give(s) the students tools to help them be successful both in school and in life.”
