Fanwood Life Magazine Fanwood Life Magazine - Fall 2018 | Page 19

PBIS at Fanwood
Positive Behavior Interventions Support (PBIS) is a research-based, school-wide
approach to teaching positive behavior to all students. New York School for the Deaf
has established a PBIS team that includes, administrators, psychologists, teachers,
TA's and other school staff members.
New York School for the Deaf implements a tiered system to increase positive school
behaviors. This tier system provides a framework that allows for acknowledgment of
students who follow the rules and display appropriate behaviors. Equally as
important, the system has built-in support for students who have difficulty
demonstrating appropriate behaviors.
School wide behavior expectations
are taught to students using the
acronym TWIST. TWIST was chosen
because it is related to tornadoes,
which is the school mascot.
T - Thoughtful
W - Wise
I - Independent
S - Safe
T - Together
PBIS TWIST Store
Every Friday, the elementary school celebrates students who have demonstrated
TWIST behaviors during that week. Whether it’s improving their focus and
concentration in class (Wise), cooperating with their friends (Together), or helping
others (Thoughtful), we recognize students who are improving and being role models
for others. TWIST students earns TWIST tickets, a certificate, and special lunch table
privileges.
Throughout the school year, all students (PreSchool through High School) earn school
dollars (TWIST tickets) for demonstrating the school wide positive behavior
expectations and following school rules. Each month, they have the opportunity to
shop at Fanwood's PBIS Store that is stocked full of amazing items. Store items are
generously donated by staff members, and consist of toys, gift cards, book bags,
wallets, winter hats, gloves, and other much needed and wanted items.
The opportunity to shop for these items, provide students with an incentive for
continual positive behavior. It's a wonderful way to celebrate success...and the look on
their faces when they "purchase" a well-deserved item is priceless.
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