Behavioral Support
Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support
Overlake Specialty School is committed to implementing positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). PBIS is a systemic approach to proactive, school- wide behavior based on a Response to Intervention (RTI) model. PBIS applies evidence-based programs, practices and strategies for all students to increase academic performance, improve safety, decrease problem behavior and establish a positive school culture. Schools implementing PBIS build on existing strengths, complementing and organizing current programming and strategies. The PBIS model has been successfully implemented in thousands of schools in more than 40 states, resulting in dramatic reductions in disciplinary interventions and increases in academic achievement. Data-based decision making is a hallmark of PBIS, allowing successes to be easily shared with all relevant stakeholders.
Life Space Crisis Intervention
LSCI is an advanced, interactive therapeutic strategy for turning crisis situations into learning opportunities for children and youth with chronic patterns of self-defeating behaviors. LSCI views problems or stressful incidents as opportunities for learning, growth, insight and change.
This non-physical intervention program uses a multi-theoretical approach to behavior management and problem solving. LSCI provides staff a roadmap through conflict to desired outcomes using crisis as an opportunity to teach and create positive relationships with youth.
Overlake Specialty School’s Vice Principal, a Behavior Intervention Specialist, and one of the teachers are certified LSCI trainers. Employees are trained throughout the year in LSCI skills to support positive behavior change in students.
Life Space Crisis Intervention (LSCI) is a nationally recognized, professional training and certification program sponsored by the Life Space Crisis Intervention Institute of Hagerstown, Maryland.
Incentives
Overlake Specialty School encourages students to learn to make choices that will maximize positive consequences and minimize negative consequences for themselves and others. Overlake Specialty School helps students learn the difference between natural and logical consequences and provides incentives for positive choices.
Wise Bucks
One of the most commonly used behavior management techniques, especially in settings for students who have learning or behavioral difficulties, is the token economy system. Our token economy system involves awarding Wise Buck dollars to students who demonstrate desired behaviors identified by the classroom community. Students may exchange Wise Buck tokens weekly for items in the Wise Buck store.
Overlake Specialty School does not view Wise Bucks as a primary factor supporting behavioral change for students. Rather, it plays a supportive role, secondary to the variety of positive supports utilized throughout the school program. The Wise Buck system additionally creates opportunities for students to practice saving and managing resources.
Each classroom has their own process established for providing Wise Bucks to students. Please contact the classroom teacher if you have specific questions about this.
Daily Goal Sheets
Daily Goal Sheets are an important part the school program and facilitate information sharing between school and home. Daily Goal Sheets serve as a means of identifying, monitoring and changing each child's behavior concerns. It is a great way for parents/guardians and teachers to regularly communicate. Daily Goal Sheets can be highly motivating to students when parent/guardians review them daily and focus on the positive accomplishments of their child. Daily Goal Sheets are also sent to each student’s district representative so they can keep track of progress.
Each student’s Daily Goal Sheet is copied and sent home at the end of each school day. Parents/guardians should keep their focus primarily on what the student did well that day. It is a great opportunity to encourage and support each student as they gain new positive behaviors and social skills. Counselors and behavior specialists can assist parents/guardians to best implement a home reinforcement program that supports each student’s daily progress.
Right Response®
The RIGHT RESPONSE is proactive, holistic and immediately effective. The philosophy of RIGHT RESPONSE focuses on a proactive approach to managing disruptive and/or assaultive behavior, featuring a holistic outlook to prevent future crisis.
The three guiding principles of this philosophy are:
- The intervention must meet the needs of our student.
- We must constantly reflect respect on the student.
- The safety of everyone in the environment is our highest priority.
Overlake Specialty School’s Behavior Intervention Specialists are certified
ADVANCED RIGHT RESPONSE® Trainers and provide training to all school
employees on an annual basis.
RIGHT RESPONSE® was created by Service Alternatives in Woodinville, WA.
