What is PBIS???
Students at The County Alternative High School receive academic, mental health, and vocational supports, but did you know they also receive a strong PBIS system? PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports.
PBIS is a three-tiered system widely used in many schools throughout the country to provide students with behavioral expectations and the supports needed to be successful. At TCAHS students receive intensive, individualized supports to meet their specific needs. Students have the opportunity to earn reward points throughout the day and each day is looked at as a new opportunity to do so. Students are encouraged to look forward with positivity, rather than looking back.
Our students earn reward points every day for their use of appropriate social behaviors and achievement of expectations. They can “cash in” those reward points daily for various rewards. Students can purchase various items from our school store such as sports items, hair and beauty products, school supplies, snacks, and even apparel. Two days a week students can earn access to special lunches. Our culinary students plan and prepare a delicious menu and students can use their earned reward points to purchase soups, salads, and sandwiches.
Lastly, students have access to our supplemental ticket system. Students who are excelling or have marked improvements can earn tickets from teachers, paraprofessionals, and counselors to be “cashed in” on Fridays for candy, snacks, cookies, and chips. Students can also access our game room on Friday afternoons which house a Play Station and Xbox and various games.
We have recently introduced two new programs to our PBIS system. Starting this year, we began our student of the month program. Three nominees are chosen based on most improved, academic achievements and behavioral successes. The winners are given a certificate of achievement and a $15 Wawa gift card. Our lead teacher has created a Quiz game to be played weekly in which students can use their knowledge of various topics to earn points.
TCAHS is committed to student success and to ensure each student can learn at their own pace and acquire problem-solving and social skills along the way.
Betsy Brown M.S., BCBA
Behavior Specialist Consultant
Gamut Early Intervention
