PBIS Journey to Genius

Ever wondered how two educators with no podcasting experience managed to craft 22 episodes packed with insights on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)? Join Dianne Ferrell and Diane Ruff as they recount their journey on PBIS Journey to Genius, highlighting memorable conversations and moments. Listen to Michelle Nervo share her expertise on blending diverse school philosophies, and hear from kindergarten teacher and PBIS coach Mrs. Roach, who focuses on nurturing student leadership over material rewards. Celebrate the evolution of PBIS with us and discover how our approach has adapted over time thanks to valuable listener and expert connections.

Discover the transformative power of goal setting within PBIS with a district-wide school counselor who implements these strategies across multiple schools. Embrace the philosophy of "go slow to go fast" and learn how gradual, thoughtful implementation leads to sustainable success. We'll break down misconceptions about PBIS being just a reward system and highlight its deeper role in appreciating and recognizing student efforts. From second to fifth-grade classrooms, witness how leadership or goal-setting binders are fostering a sense of ownership and leadership among students, creating an environment where they are motivated to set and track their goals.

As we wrap up this incredible season, our heartfelt gratitude goes out to every teacher, listener, and expert who has supported us. We are thrilled to return in the fall with more advanced topics, including tier two strategies, and we encourage you to stay connected with us via email. Reflect with us on the meaningful interactions and progress made throughout the school year, and join us in celebrating the student growth and achievements that have made this journey so rewarding. Thank you for being an integral part of PBIS Journey to Genius, and we look forward to exploring even more impactful educational strategies together soon!

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

While Dianne basks in the Florida sun, I’m here to take you through an intimate exploration of student empowerment. Imagine a tool so transformative that it allows children to witness their own unfolding potential; that's the magic we're discussing today through the voices of these young leaders. These remarkable students open their leadership binders and let us peek inside their academic and personal growth journeys, showing us just how powerful taking charge of one's own progress can be. Whether it's mastering the realm of mathematics or setting meaningful behavior goals, these binders are more than mere organizational tools—they are the pages of self-discovery and affirmation for the young leaders of tomorrow.

In a moment of poignant reflection, we also weave through the narrative of a student who, despite physical challenges, charts a heartening course of personal milestones. From an "all about me" chart to the steps taken post-surgery, this story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our youth and the educators who stand by them. It's a celebration of mentorship, the strength drawn from community, and the joy found in self-realization. Join me as we honor the dedication of teachers, mentors, and the soulful strides of our students—it's an episode that promises to spark gratitude and inspire pride in the collective effort to lift our children towards their brightest futures.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Have you ever wondered what draws someone into the world of education? In our latest episode of PBIS: Journey to Genius, we had the pleasure of hosting Tracy Stewart and Travis Morris from Granville Elementary, who revealed to us their heartfelt tales of entering the educational sphere. Tracy's lineage is steeped in teaching tradition, while Travis' path was less direct, yet both are united by a passion for nurturing the next generation. They shared with us the simple, everyday moments that affirm their commitment to their roles, and the profound impact of fostering genuine connections within their school community.

We ventured together into the creative world of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and discovered how Granville Elementary's personalized sticker system is making waves. Tracy and Travis detailed the power of acknowledgment through strength-based conversations and goal-setting, demonstrating how these initiatives form building blocks for an inclusive, optimistic school culture. Their blue ace visions are not mere whimsy; they are strategic, serving the students' diverse needs and leading to a comprehensive framework that supports every child's journey.

As Dianne Ferrell and Diane Ruff signed off this episode, we looked back at the influential voices that have shaped PBIS over the past decade and teased future discussions on advanced interventions. We extended our gratitude to our vibrant community of educators and listeners who have taken this journey with us. Thank you for tuning in, and we invite you to become a part of our mission to empower teachers and support students as they grow into their best selves. Don't forget to connect with us on our social channels and join the conversation in empowering the education community.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Embark on an educational odyssey with the wisdom of Phil Heflin, a retired educator whose 37-year legacy is marked by transforming lives within the classroom walls. Our latest episode captures the heartwarming tales of a man whose journey from academic hardship to beloved teacher and administrator embodies the spirit of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Phil's stories resonate with the power of personal connections, the moments that spark a student's passion, and the gentle art of acknowledgment that can turn an ordinary classroom into a haven of inspiration.

High school may seem like a tough nut to crack with PBIS, but Phil breaks down these barriers, sharing innovative tactics that ditch the textbook for the human touch. His exciting recount of 'Why We Love Wednesday,' the laughter behind crazy pants Fridays, and the simple joy of a sticker or a cookie remind us that adolescence is still a time for fun, discovery, and yes, a little bit of sweetness. Teachers and students alike bask in the culture of recognition that Phil fostered, proving that encouragement doesn't just belong to the young but thrives at any age, in any educational stage.

As our conversation comes to an end, Phil leaves us not just with anecdotes but with actionable insights into crafting a high school environment where every student feels valued. Understanding the subtle mechanics of PBIS at the high school level empowers us to perceive the potential in every student. So join us for a heartfelt episode that celebrates the ingenuity and dedication of one man's mission to nurture the genius in every student, and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions that promise to transform the way we approach education.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Ever wondered how the delicate art of positive reinforcement can ignite a child’s intrinsic motivation? Let us take you by the hand and walk you through the enchanting world of PBIS, where our second-grade heroes, Lynda Jones and Susan Zifer, weave tales of triumph, heartfelt reasons for choosing the teaching path and the sheer magic of personalized acknowledgment systems. Their approach isn’t just about doling out rewards; it’s about using peer interactions and the power of recognition to foster strong relationships and encourage students to take ownership of their behavior and learning.

Imagine a place where students not only learn but also lead, and where their growth is as visible to them as it is to their teachers. Our discussion unfurls the transformative potential of student binder organization, a project that evolved over time from a skeptic's trial to a robust self-managed system that propels young learners toward setting goals and celebrating their personal journey. These binders, brimming with achievements and reflections, illustrate how a simple organizational tool can develop into a source of pride and a stepping stone for self-motivated learning.

Finally, these tools not only empower students to articulate their progress but also serve as precious keepsakes of their academic and personal milestones. Whether you're in the classroom, at home, or simply passionate about education's potential, this episode promises insights and inspiration to help you start small and build impactful educational practices. Join us and tap into the wisdom that Lynda and Susan,  share, as we celebrate the spirit of teaching and the incredible capacity of our students to learn, lead, and grow.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Discover the heartwarming stories and innovative strategies behind Dover Avenue Elementary's transformation in student behavior management. Join us as Katie  and Mary the dynamic duo from Dover, unravel their personal journeys into the world of education, driven by deep-rooted passions and family legacies. Katie's transition from classroom to administration, fueled by her innate leadership qualities, and Mary's candid reflections on the daily rollercoaster of teaching fifth-grade math, weave together a narrative of commitment and empathy. As we unravel the complexities of handling challenging behaviors, we celebrate the collaborative spirit that empowers the Dover Avenue Elementary community to rise above and thrive.

Step into a world where technology meets positive reinforcement, as we reveal how a simple shift from paper to digital skyrocketed Dover Avenue's student recognition rates from 61% to an impressive 93%. Our hosts, Dianne Ferrell and Diane Ruff,  shed light on the power of teacher input in shaping a PBIS program that resonates with both students and educators. From 'tornado shoutouts' to personal lunches with the principal, we unpack the creative incentives that have reshaped the school's culture. In this episode, we're not just talking about educational innovation—we're celebrating the unsung heroes who make it happen every day.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Discover how a heartfelt tale of triumph over fractions can change the way we approach education. This episode brings you the inspiring voice of Autumn Thomas, a fifth-grade educator with a decade-plus of experience, who joins Dianne Ferrell and me to share her story and strategies for harnessing the power of personalized acknowledgment to inspire a love for learning in students. We discuss Autumn's transformative 10-day reward system and dive into the magic of consistent positive reinforcement in shaping not only behavior but the future of our children.

Ever wondered how to capture a student's academic journey in a way that bolsters their confidence and drive? We've got you covered with our exploration of student leadership binders. These aren't your ordinary school folders; they're a celebration of personal growth, a repository of achievements, and a roadmap for future success. We unpack how these binders, filled with star charts, leadership certificates, and even special programs like NBA (Never Been Absent), become treasured keepsakes that spur students to set and surpass their goals.

Wrapping up, we take a moment to marvel at the intersection of growth mindset principles and the PBIS framework, highlighting the game-changing role of leadership binders in recognition systems. Autumn's insights are pure gold, and we are eager to help educators everywhere tap into these strategies. So join our passionate education community, connect with us for resources and support, and let's work together to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to shine.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Unlock the secrets of innovative student behavior management with Minerva Elementary's reflection room, guided by the wisdom of PBIS principles. Dianne Ferrell and I, Diane Ruff, explore how the calm of reflection can transform student behavior, sharing our "three Rs" strategy that empowers students to reflect, reset, and return to class with a fresh perspective. Our conversation dismantles the myth that PBIS is synonymous with leniency, shining a light on constructive, instructional consequences that pave the way for meaningful behavior change. Inspired by insights from the "Expert Instruction: The Teach by Design" podcast, we reveal how to craft consequences that build, rather than break, a student's ability to thrive in the classroom.

Experience the power of consistency across educational environments, as we delve into the necessity of setting clear behavior expectations for students, underpinned by the mantra "be safe, responsible, and respectful." We offer practical tactics to manage classroom behavior, with a focus on the importance of timing and approach to behavioral instruction. Our reflection room is not just a space—it's a tool for tackling the underlying causes of misbehavior, helping students shift from their "animal brain" to their "thinking brain," and fostering lasting change. Engage with us through email and our social media platforms for more resources, including our PBIS Tips of the Week, as we guide you on this journey to harnessing the genius within every student.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Embark on a transformative journey with Dianne Ferrell and me, Diane Ruff, as we pull back the curtain on our pioneering PBIS system. Our special guest, educational aide Nicole Sell, lends her expertise, sharing how a simple idea I proposed during my assistant principal interview led to the creation of the Reflection Room—a sanctuary for emotional and behavioral recalibration. We delve into the nuances of managing behaviors through sensory strategies and how even the most restless student can find solace and a path back to focused learning within the walls of this innovative space.

As we traverse the spectrum of elementary education, from kindergarteners to fifth graders, we uncover the art of tailoring communication to support behavioral growth. Hear firsthand accounts of game-based learning that's shifting the paradigm on student engagement and self-management. Nicole's unexpected journey into the field of education and her commitment to nurturing emotional regulation is nothing short of inspiring. Tune in for an episode filled with triumphs, strategies, and heartwarming successes that illustrate the profound impact of thoughtfully implemented behavioral supports in our school community.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35

Embark on an educational odyssey with Erica Bauer, the heart and soul behind Green Local Schools' remarkable shift towards a nurturing and conducive learning atmosphere. As a school counselor and the mastermind coordinating PBIS district-wide, Erica joins us, along with Diane Ruff and Dianne Ferrell to unfold the narrative of how positive reinforcement and strategic behavioral supports can revolutionize a school district. We celebrate the triumphs and discuss the texture of the journey that led to the successful implementation of Tier 1 support systems and recognition through esteemed awards. With a passionate emphasis on forging strong relationships within the school community, our conversation unveils the pivotal role of a united district-level PBIS team, supported by state, in sculpting an academic environment where every student thrives.

The conversation takes a deeper look into the craft of enhancing school performance through meticulously organized teams and the astute application of the Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI). We share the wisdom behind the maxim "go slow to go fast," a philosophy that has anchored nearly a decade of gradual yet impactful development. Erica's strategic focus on team composition and action plans has led to a district-wide culture of incremental improvement, and the enduring success of Tier One procedures. Join us as we celebrate Erica's tireless efforts in community outreach and her knack for rallying schools under the PBIS flag—culminating in Green Local Schools' proud moment as the new district PBIS Award winner. If you're inspired by tales of educational transformation, this is your invitation to listen, learn, and perhaps even lead change in your own community.

https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35