For 25 years, the Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports has worked with schools around the country to make learning environments more supportive and productive. The PBIS framework focuses on establishing shared values and expectations for the classroom and acknowledging positive behavior. It also aims to address unwanted behavior through redirection instead of punishment. The center recently received $21 million from the U.S. Department of Education to fund its work for the next five years.

Kent McIntosh is the Philip H. Knight Chair of Special Education at the University of Oregon and co-director of the center. He joins us to share more about the center’s work and the importance of creating positive school cultures.