Positive Behavior Supports (PBIS)

When implemented with fidelity, PBIS strengthens social-emotional skills, improves school climate, and supports student and staff well-being. By establishing clear expectations and reinforcing positive behaviors, PBIS creates safe, predictable, and equitable learning environments where students can reach their full potential. This framework reflects Rocklin Unified’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and resilience across all schools.
What does PBIS Emphasize?
In general, PBIS emphasizes four integrated elements: (a) data for decision-making, (b) measurable outcomes supported and evaluated by data, (c) practices with evidence that these outcomes are achievable, and (d) systems that efficiently and effectively support the implementation of these practices.
Six important principles guide elements of PBIS:
- Develop a continuum of scientifically based behavior, social-emotional and academic interventions, and supports
- Use data to make decisions and solve problems
- Arrange the environment to prevent the development and occurrence of problem behavior
- Teach and encourage pro-social skills and behaviors
- Implement evidence-based behavioral practices with fidelity and accountability
- Screen universally and monitor student performance & progress continuously
What is a continuum of PBIS?
PBIS schools organize their evidence-based behavioral practices and systems into an integrated collection or Multi-Tier System of Supports Framework in which students experience supports based on their behavioral responsiveness to intervention. A three-tiered prevention logic requires that all students receive supports at the universal or primary tier. If the behavior of some students is not responsive, more intensive behavioral supports are provided, in the form of a group contingency (selected or secondary tier) or a highly individualized plan (intensive or tertiary tier).