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Berkshire Elementary School (BES) was recently awarded the Bronze Recognition Award by the Ohio PBIS Network and the State Support Team Region 4 for the 2023 Ohio PBIS Showcase. PBIS, which stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports, involves teaching students behavioral expectations in a consistent and positive manner, modeling the behaviors, providing positive reinforcement, and taking steps to help all students successfully achieve expectations.

This noteworthy accomplishment is made even more impressive given that the staff and students of Ledgemont and Burton Elementary Schools merged to create a whole new school community for the 2022-23 school year. The new BES PBIS team worked diligently to create a new school-wide positive behavior recognition system. Key areas of focus included teaching students about expectations for positive behavior, fostering a positive sense of community, and creating stronger relationships with both staff and students. Data collection and analysis play a critical role in helping BES staff to make informed decisions related to the PBIS program. As a fun way to generate school pride and reinforce positive behaviors, the building frequently welcomed Bert the Badger, the district’s mascot, to visit BES during the 22-23 school year.  Students are also encouraged to follow the school’s motto of “Be your B.E.S.T. at B.E.S.! -- Be safe, Encourage kindness, Show integrity, Take responsibility" every day.

“It has been exciting to watch the PBIS program blossom and grow at BES,” shared Laurie Hughes, Intervention Specialist at Berkshire Elementary. “Because of our PBIS initiatives, a culture of positivity has grown and we have seen reduced discipline referrals, increased student engagement, and happier students and staff.”

For the 2023-24 school year, BES will continue last year’s focus on Tier 1 PBIS practices, while seeking to develop and implement Tier 2 practices. The building will be eligible to apply for the Silver Recognition award in the Spring of 2024.

The Berkshire Local Schools proudly congratulates Berkshire Elementary School for earning the Bronze Recognition PBIS Award. This recognition was made possible through the tireless dedication and support of the entire school community, including our teachers, administrators, staff, students, and families.