B-I-N-G-O! Westmont Hilltop Elementary School students had the opportunity to play bingo as part of the positive behavior support program (PBIS). Students earn Westy Star Tickets through positive behavior and have the opportunity to redeem the tickets for special activities, school purchases, or whole group activities. Last month, students enjoyed a whole-school reward; the MAGIC of Science with Professor Steve. This was achieved by reaching the goal set at the beginning of the school year.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an evidence-based three-tiered framework for improving and integrating all of the data, systems, and practices affecting student outcomes every day. Tier 1 systems impact everyone across all settings. Tier 2 systems focus on supporting students who are at risk of developing more serious problem behavior (before those behaviors start). Tier 3 systems focus on students who need more intensive, individualized support to improve their behavioral and academic outcomes.
The Westmont Hilltop Elementary School adopted the PBIS program in the fall of 2016. The administration still has to address negative student behaviors, but the program provides additional support and reinforces positive student behaviors making negative student behaviors less likely. The program is a labor-intense endeavor overseen by the PBIS Team. Last year, the PBIS team was nationally recognized for their excellent work and success. WHES was named a Banner School. A Banner School is one that implements School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) with fidelity, as measured by the School-Wide Evaluation Tool (SET), has a decrease in office discipline referrals, and uses data effectively, and actively participates in the program. Banner schools receive a banner and certificate, are highlighted at statewide events (and on the SERC Website), and in PBIS publications. Our banner is proudly displayed in the lobby of WHES.
The PBIS Team would like to thank the many sponsors of the program, specifically: Reschini Insurance, McIlwain School Bus Lines, Metz, Inc., Morgainz Fitness, Young at Heart Books and Toys, BJ Maurer Ford, Monica Cox, 814 Lanes & Games, WHES PTO, Eat-n-Park, Watson Insurance, Sweet Frog, Jodi Wachs, Conemaugh Hospital and Westwood Plaza Theatre.