Definition of Bullying
Intentional conduct, including verbal, physical, or written conduct, or intentional electronic communication creates a hostile educational environment by substantially interfering with a student or staff member's educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, or with their physical or psychological well-being. Intentional conduct is also considered bullying if it:- It is motivated by an actual or perceived personal characteristic including race, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socioeconomic status, familial status, or physical or mental ability or disability.
- It is threatening or seriously intimidating.
- Occurs on school property, at a school activity or event, or on a school bus; or, substantially disrupts the orderly operation of a school or workplace.
Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)
"PBIS" is short for Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports. It is a nationally recognized and research-based process that supports positive learning environments. PBIS is used interchangeably with SWPBS, which is short for "School-wide Positive Behavior Supports."PBIS is a framework or approach for assisting school personnel in adopting and organizing evidence-based behavioral interventions into an integrated continuum through defining, teaching, and acknowledging behavioral expectations. By reinforcing positive behaviors, schools find that teachers spend more time teaching, as class disruptions, office referrals, and suspensions are reduced.
PBIS is not a packaged curriculum, a scripted intervention, or a stand-alone strategy. PBIS is a prevention-oriented way for school personnel to:- organize evidence-based practices
- improve their implementation of those practices using data, and
- maximize academic and social behavior outcomes for students.
PBIS supports the success of all students.
