Mary M. Knight School implements a research-based framework for teaching and supporting positive behaviors that creates consistent expectations across all school settings. Through their systematic Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, the school maintains a structured approach to promoting socially appropriate behaviors while supporting students' academic and social success.
Teaching Positive Behaviors
The school follows a detailed teaching calendar that ensures students understand and practice positive behaviors throughout the year. Each month focuses on specific OWLS traits - Ownership, Willingness, Leadership, and Success - with weekly lessons targeting different school areas such as classrooms, hallways, and common spaces.
"Our approach isn't just about rules - it's about teaching, modeling, and practicing expectations," explains the PBIS team. Teachers and staff actively demonstrate these behaviors, provide opportunities for practice, and offer specific feedback to help students succeed.
[Image 1: Students display their recognition certificates, showcasing the school's commitment to acknowledging positive behavior through regular awards ceremonies.]
Data-Driven Support
The school utilizes a comprehensive data tracking system through office discipline referrals to identify patterns and areas needing additional support. This information helps staff make informed decisions about where to focus teaching efforts and which areas of the school might need additional attention or modified strategies.
Multi-Tiered Support System
Mary M. Knight's PBIS framework operates on three tiers of support:
Tier 1 provides universal support for all students, including clear expectations, regular teaching of positive behaviors, and recognition systems like OWL bucks
Tier 2 offers targeted interventions for students needing additional support
Tier 3 provides intensive, individualized support for students requiring more comprehensive intervention
Recognition and Rewards
The school maintains a 5:1 ratio of positive reinforcement to correction, ensuring students receive abundant acknowledgment for their positive choices.
[Image 4: A student explores the elementary OWL store, where students can redeem earned OWL bucks for various rewards.]
Students can earn OWL bucks daily for demonstrating positive behaviors. Elementary students enjoy rewards such as:
Shopping at the OWL store
Using the Principal's Chair
Extra recess time
Special Kabota rides with the principal
Secondary students participate in unique reward opportunities: [Image 2: Students engage in a cooking activity during a Fest day, demonstrating how positive behavior rewards can include engaging, hands-on experiences.]
Character Development
The Character Strong curriculum provides daily social-emotional learning opportunities for all grade levels:
Elementary students receive daily lessons focusing on traits like respect, responsibility, and empathy
Secondary students participate in weekly targeted lessons during Advisory periods
[Image 3: Weekly GRIT award recipients demonstrate the ongoing recognition of character development and perseverance.]
Celebrating Achievement
Regular recognition ceremonies reinforce positive behaviors and celebrate student success:
Elementary students receive monthly awards
Secondary students earn quarterly recognition
Special achievements are highlighted in both academic and behavioral areas
[Image 5: Secondary students receive special OWLS recognition awards, demonstrating the school's commitment to acknowledging positive behavior at all grade levels.]
Family and Community Partnership
Families play a crucial role in reinforcing positive behaviors. The school provides regular communication about behavioral expectations and celebrations of success. Parents report that their children often share Character Strong lessons at home, creating valuable connections between school and family life.
Looking Forward
Through careful monitoring of behavioral data, regular teaching of expectations, and consistent recognition of positive choices, Mary M. Knight continues to refine and enhance its PBIS program. The school's commitment to teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors creates an environment where students can focus on learning and growing.
For more information about the PBIS program or to learn how families can support these efforts at home, contact the school office.