Daily Newsletters
Account
Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
Clark Elementary celebrates November PBIS
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
Clark students gathered in the new gymnasium to celebrate another successful month of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.) This evidence-based program helps students develop skills that will ensure success throughout their life. Throughout the year, students earn Tiger Tickets. At the monthly assembly the Tiger Tickets are gathered together in the PAW Meter. The PAW meter is marked with goal levels. When the pile of tickets reaches the goal, a reward is enjoyed by the entire school.
After grades K-5 gather, the assembly begins with the “WE ARE CLARK!” cheer. In November, the second-grade selected sign holders to help lead the cheer. The gym resounds with loud voices. After the cheer, a class section representative comes forward and dumps the container of Tiger Tickets in the PAW meter.
Each month has a theme. The first month students learned to BE PROACTIVE. Proactive means doing the right thing without being asked and even if no one is looking. Students are responsible, maintain a good attitude, take the initiative and do not blame others if they make poor choices.
The second month, the lesson learned was BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND. Students plan ahead and set goals always looking for a way to be a good citizen. By doing things that have meaning and make a difference, each student is an important part of their classroom and contributes to the Clark vision by being part of the larger community.
In November, everyone practiced PUT FIRST THINGGS FIRST. This huge task encompasses spending time doing the things that are important and learning to set priorities. Learning to make a schedule and follow a plan are very important. Students are disciplined and organized and say “No” to things they should not be doing. Work first then play is a rewarding way to make sense of the world.
A good example of “Putting First Things First” was demonstrated by the second grade. They are working hard on reading, making it a priority and following a plan. Reading is a key skill for life.
As the assembly ends with the “WE ARE CLARK!” cheer, it is time to reflect on student efforts. As each month passes, the theme brings a new skill but the old skills are not forgotten. Students continue practicing all the skills getting better and better in their classrooms.
PBIS is not a purchased curriculum. It is something teachers learn to help students throughout their life. After one strips away the inflated descriptions, it provides an ongoing commitment to supporting students, educators, and families through system change. When PBIS is implemented well, students and teachers experience enriched lives.
