PBIS is a schoolwide system that seeks to set clear expectations for appropriate behaviors and reward students who are achieving those behaviors. The goal of PBIS is to create a school environment of Safety, Respect and Responsibility that will reduce negative behaviors before they begin.

Hilltop ’s PBIS System has 5 components that you can read about below.
 
1. A Matrix of Behavioral Expectations

Be Safe

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Our goal is to make the understanding of our three B’s as clear, consistent and easy as possible for our students. What you will find on the matrix is what each of these rules actually looks like in the various places in the school and on the grounds. In a positive manner, the matrix tells students what to do and how to behave in order to abide by these rules. The matrix is posted throughout Hilltop School.

Please take time to go over and review this matrix with your child(ren). It may be helpful to post the matrix somewhere accessible in your home. The matrix can be downloaded at the bottom of this page. 

2. Cool Tools
One of the most important parts of the PBIS system is that behavioral skills and expectations are taught directly to students. This way, children know exactly what is expected of them and how they are to behave. Cool Tools are taught throughout the year, especially as the needs arise.  

3. Hawk Feathers 
Another component of the PBIS system is use of consistent positive reinforcement to celebrate students’ success. All staff member who observe students exhibiting Hawk behavior can issue a Hawk Feather. ALL students should be receiving Hawk Feathers for demonstrating good behavior or the behavioral skill being taught. Students can earn Hawk Feathers in all areas of the school and from all staff. Research shows us that positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to not only change problematic behavior, but also encourage and maintain appropriate behavior.

4. Office Discipline Referral Forms – ODR’s
Even teaching students our expectations, offering reminders for the expected behaviors and having our positive reinforcement system in place, some students still make undesirable choices. For those instances, the staff has designed the ODR (Office Discipline Referral form). The form helps define Hawk behaviors, and allows for taking corrective action when needed.
 
Of course, our goal is to teach children replacement behaviors so that all of our students can work in a school environment that is safe, fun, free from distraction and allows all our students to reach their maximum learning potential.

5. The Committee
Hilltop's PBIS Committee is organized by serveral Hilltop teachers/staff members to include paraeducators and administration.

PBIS works best when teachers, support staff, parents and community members are on board.  If you're interested in serving on the committe, please contact Dr. VonSchnase at KyleVonSchnase@u-46.org. 

Click the links below to learn more about the PBIS program at Hilltop.