Clark Early Learning Center has earned the Bronze PBIS Award from the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce (ODEW). This accomplishment recognizes the school’s hard work to create a positive, consistent and caring place for kids to learn. PBIS, or Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, is a framework schools around the country use to teach and reinforce positive behavior.
Over the past two years, the Clark team has put in serious effort to make sure students know what’s expected each day. One example is the school’s ‘Little Cat Promises’ — Be Safe, Be Respectful and Be Responsible — which students and staff review each morning. Classrooms focus on one promise at a time, like using ‘safe hands’ or sharing with others, and add links to a schoolwide ‘Promise Chain’ each time they meet their goal.
Teachers also use simple, clear lesson plans to introduce routines and expectations so students get the same message, no matter the classroom. Staff members regularly look at behavior and progress data, and students are recognized for making positive choices and showing leadership.
Even though Clark has earned the Bronze Award, their building’s momentum isn’t slowing down – their staff is already preparing to apply for the Silver PBIS Award from ODEW this spring.