Parent involvement is considered to be the key factor in the academic achievement and emotional functioning of children.  The research on family involvement in education spans 30 years.  It links increased student achievement with parent involvement in their child’s learning.  This link has also spread to student behavior, as students whose parents are involved in their education show improved behavior (National Education Service, 2000).   ESM began implementing PBIS because our goal is to increase academic achievement and improve student behavior.  Research shows that:

-           For every year a behavior is in place it takes at least one month for that behavior to have a significant change.

-           Children comply with the rules 80% of the time.  However they are complimented for their behavior less than 2% of the time.

-          You can improve behavior by 80% just by pointing out what someone is doing correctly.

-          A student is less likely to drop out of school if one adult other than their teacher knows and uses their name.  

In order to improve academic achievement and student behavior, parent and community involvement are essential.  Check the links to the right for information regarding Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in our district.

Linda Weiss, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel

Michelle Levy, Regional PBIS Coach