Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)

"PBIS" is short for Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports. It is a nationally recognized and research based process that supports positive learning environments. PBIS is used interchangeably with SWPBS, which is short for "School-wide Positive Behavior Supports."

PBIS is a framework or approach for assisting school personnel in adopting and organizing evidence-based behavioral interventions into an integrated continuum through defining, teaching, and acknowledging behavioral expectations. By reinforcing positive behaviors, schools find that teachers spend more time teaching, as class disruptions, office referrals and suspensions are reduced.

PBIS is not a packaged curriculum, a scripted intervention, or a stand-alone strategy. PBIS is a prevention-oriented way for school personnel to (a) organize evidence-based practices, (b) improve their implementation of those practices using data, and (c) maximize academic and social behavior outcomes for students. PBIS supports the success of all students.

PBIS uses a three-tiered prevention logic that requires all students to receive supports at the universal or primary tier. If the behavior of some students is not responsive, more intensive behavioral supports, (targeted or secondary tier) or a highly individualized plan (intensive or tertiary tier) are provided. View Maryland's Three-Tiered Instructional and PBIS Framework.

The Howard County Public School System has been involved in PBIS since the 1999-2000 school year. Currently 54 of the 72 Howard County public schools participate in the PBIS initiative. Please go to your child's school website or contact the school for specific information about PBIS in that school. Schools that participate in the program are listed below.

PBIS Maryland and Maryland Recognition Awards

PBIS Schools in the Howard County Public School System