Over the past year, our PBIS Committee has been focusing on improving behavior in common areas. Staff members worked collaboratively to create a matrix identifying a set of behavioral expectations for settings such as the cafeteria, hallways, restrooms, and playground. For example, in the cafeteria students are expected to use good manners, pick up trash, be aware of food allergies, and speak in a low volume (level 1-2). Hallway expectations include: walking feet, eyes forward, silent waves, and respect bulletin boards.
Since September, we have been teaching these expectations to students through classroom lessons, video modeling, and grade level meetings. The expectations are also posted throughout the building, along with illustrations created by students. As a result, there is a common language and shared understanding of appropriate behaviors.
