Arcadia elementary school receives California PBIS silver medal

Longley Way Elementary School has earned a silver medal from California Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) for its implementation of the program’s framework during the 2023-24 school year.

“This award is a testament to the outstanding work our students, teachers, staff, and parents put in every single day. Something of this magnitude can only be accomplished by a community that pours its heart into our Longley Way Lions. I’m proud every day to lead this wonderful community of lifelong learners,” said Principal Lorie Felippa.

PBIS is a systemic approach to teaching and managing behavior in schools. The goal is to enhance the capacity of schools, families, and communities to create and maintain positive school environments so all students can achieve academically and socially. The program emphasizes the cultivation of positive behaviors and the creation of supportive learning environments.

“This incredible PBIS distinction is a direct result of the hard work, collaboration, and unwavering commitment of all of our staff in effectively implementing PBIS. Congratulations to all of our Longley Way Lions for this wonderful accomplishment and recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. David Vannasdall. 

In order for schools to receive recognition from the California PBIS Coalition, they are rated in six areas of PBIS implementation: 

-Develop a continuum of scientifically based behavior, social emotional and academic interventions and supports

-Use data to make decisions and solve problems

-Arrange the environment to prevent the development and occurrence of problem behavior

-Teach and encourage prosocial skills and behaviors

-Implement evidence-based behavioral practices with fidelity and accountability

-Screen universally and monitor student performance & progress continuously

“We are all incredibly proud of Longley Way for receiving the prestigious PBIS Silver award. PBIS has become an integral part of the culture within our schools, and our teachers have successfully incorporated the principles of positive behavior supports into their daily academic instruction and routines. It is a wonderful honor to receive this award,” shared Board of Education President Raymond Cheung. 

For more information about the California PBIS program, visit pbisca.org, and for additional information on Arcadia Unified’s Longley Way Elementary School, visit lw.ausd.net.

More from Arcadia Weekly