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Pupil Services

Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports

Building safe, welcoming schools where every student belongs

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, or PBIS, is an evidence-based, tiered framework used to support positive school climates and improve student academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and mental health outcomes. In Oxnard School District, PBIS provides a proactive, schoolwide approach to creating positive, predictable, equitable, and safe learning environments where all students can thrive.

PBIS is grounded in clearly taught behavior expectations, positive reinforcement, culturally responsive practices, and strong relationships between students and staff. Through this framework, schools establish universal behavior norms, provide consistent support, and use data to identify student needs and guide interventions. PBIS aligns with the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports by ensuring that all students receive universal supports, while students with emerging or intensive needs receive additional targeted and individualized support.

The Three Tiers of Support

  1. Tier 1 — Universal Supports

    At Tier 1, schools focus on universal supports for all students by building a positive school climate and teaching skills that support belonging, wellness, and positive behavior. Examples include behavior support workshops, PBIS expectation assemblies, classroom lessons, schoolwide activities, wellness center visits, student leadership opportunities, family nights, recess activities, and spirit weeks.

  2. Tier 2 — Targeted Support

    At Tier 2, schools provide targeted support for students who show early signs of needing additional assistance beyond universal supports. These supports may include small-group counseling, brief individual counseling, restorative practices, in-class supports, attendance plans, and consultation with staff and families.

  3. Tier 3 — Intensive, Individualized Support

    At Tier 3, schools provide intensive and individualized support for students with higher or more persistent academic, behavioral, social-emotional, or wellness needs. Site teams use data-driven approaches to support students at this tier.

School PBIS teams work collaboratively to support implementation, monitor effectiveness, and strengthen practices across classrooms and the campus. These teams help promote caring relationships, high expectations for all students, meaningful student participation, effective classroom routines, and positive teacher-student interactions.

When implemented with fidelity, PBIS improves school climate, strengthens social-emotional competence, supports academic success, and helps create school communities where students, staff, and families feel connected, supported, and valued.

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