Schools across the district and nation implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS), a three-tiered framework that builds on positivity and consistency to help:

• Teachers develop and share expectations with students and families to maintain a safe learning environment for all.
• Children develop self-discipline and foster community through positive behavior in school.
• Teachers and families share the responsibility – and rewards – of fostering good citizens.

Westside Academy PBIS Expectations

The writing is on the wall at Westside Academy as classroom and hallway posters colorfully, clearly state our PBIS expectations:

• Be Safe.
• Be Responsible.
• Be Respectful.

Staff teach and model these expectations for students. Positive reinforcement is another integral piece of the Westside Academy PBIS framework, and we build student recognition and community celebration into our school schedule.

Every two weeks, the Westside Academy Morning Assembly brings all classrooms together to compete for our school “spirit stick” and reinforce our PBIS framework. During each assembly, teachers and staff:

• Reward students who meet our PBIS expectations with “Phoenix Flame” tickets that can be redeemed at the school store.
• Recognize students who have achieved 95 percent attendance.
• Watch students compete in the all-school “Minute to Win It” contest.

Another way that students care for this community – and one another – is by practicing healthy communication habits and relationship-building skills that promote respect. The 2023-24 school year marks the second year of Westside Academy’s restorative practices program.

PBIS at Home

Caregivers are key to the essential, everyday work of nurturing good citizens and promoting safety, responsibility, and respect.
Practicing PBIS at home can include modeling and teaching these behaviors:

• Ask instead of demand.
• Say “please” and “thank you.”
• Use eating utensils correctly.
• Look both ways when crossing the street.
• Do chores.
• Walk up and down stairs; don’t run.
• Clean up toys.

Positivity is key. Recognize your child’s positive contributions at home and in school whenever you can.