NoCal elementary schools give new behavioral approach A+

Kindergartner Bobby Olson, 5, points to his classroom's rules Friday. The rules are part of the new Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports approach Auxvasse Elementary has implemented. Olson was recognized as the "Tiger of the Week" Friday for his good behavior in class.
Kindergartner Bobby Olson, 5, points to his classroom's rules Friday. The rules are part of the new Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports approach Auxvasse Elementary has implemented. Olson was recognized as the "Tiger of the Week" Friday for his good behavior in class.

Actions may speak louder than words, but North Callaway schools are teaching how using the correct words can lead to better actions.

Auxvasse and Williamsburg Elementary schools have fully implemented a new behavior program this year called Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Hatton-McCredie Elementary is in its second year of fully utilizing the program. School officials at all three schools say the results of PBIS speak for themselves, as they have had fewer discipline issues since starting the new approach.

PBIS is an involved program that uses a matrix of expected behaviors, lesson plans to teach the behaviors, a reward system to promote the positive behaviors, flow charts to depict discipline and signs around the classrooms and building. Each of the district's elementary schools has its own variation of the program.

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.