Tackling Racial Discipline Disparities Through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Model School Recognition Systems

• In Event: Structures, People, and Programs for Improving Schools and Systems

Abstract

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a multi-tiered schoolwide program that aims to proactively address student discipline concerns. States have developed model school recognition systems to encourage the adoption and implementation of PBIS with fidelity. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship, if any, between PBIS Model School designations and the relative risk for racial subgroups to experience disciplinary exclusions in Florida middle schools for the 2021-2022 school year. Results showed that the relative risk for Black students to receive a disciplinary exclusion was significantly less in schools that were awarded higher PBIS Model School designations. Conversely, the relative risk for White and Hispanic students was more proportionate relative to their representation in the school population.

Authors

• Ismail Muhammad ibn Ali, Al Fatih Academy

• Marjorie Ceballos, University of Central Florida

• William R. Gordon, University of Central Florida