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Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a systems approach for establishing a safe and supportive learning environment to promote social, behavioral, and academic success for all students.  PBIS is a behavioral framework for developing a common vision, language, and practices used consistently across the school to:

• improve school climate;

• strengthen relationships;

• teach and reinforce expectations;

• increase positive behaviors, academic achievement, and equitable learning experiences; and

• decrease office referrals and suspensions.

Mental and behavioral health and wellness efforts are also supported across all three tiers of instruction to promote academic and social success for students. Targeted and intensive interventions are provided to support the learning needs of students.

What Does PBIS Emphasize?

PBIS emphasizes four integrated elements: 

• data for decision making; 

• measurable outcomes supported and evaluated by data;

• practices with evidence that these outcomes are achievable; and 

• systems that efficiently and effectively support the implementation of these practices. 

What Outcomes are Associated with the Implementation of PBIS?

Implementation of PBIS in LCPS schools fosters teaching and learning environments that: 

• are more engaging, responsive, and productive;

• address classroom management and disciplinary issues;

• improve support for students; and

• maximize academic engagement and achievement for all students.

Loudoun County Public Schools began implementing the PBIS framework in 2007. Since 2012, all LCPS schools implement PBIS as a prevention and intervention framework. With a strong Tier 1 PBIS framework in place across the division, we are committed to identifying and implementing equitable practices into school-wide behavioral prevention practices and interventions, as well as increasing responsiveness to the diverse cultures and communities served by our schools.

For students in need of additional supports, the  Tiered Behavior Intervention Selection Guidance document should be consulted.