PBIS Journey to Genius

Episode 23 Reflections on PBIS: Celebrating Growth and Progress

Ever wondered how two educators with no podcasting experience managed to craft 22 episodes packed with insights on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)? Join Dianne Ferrell and Diane Ruff as they recount their journey on PBIS Journey to Genius, highlighting memorable conversations and moments. Listen to Michelle Nervo share her expertise on blending diverse school philosophies, and hear from kindergarten teacher and PBIS coach Mrs. Roach, who focuses on nurturing student leadership over material rewards. Celebrate the evolution of PBIS with us and discover how our approach has adapted over time thanks to valuable listener and expert connections. Discover the transformative power of goal setting within PBIS with a district-wide school counselor who implements these strategies across multiple schools. Embrace the philosophy of "go slow to go fast" and learn how gradual, thoughtful implementation leads to sustainable success. We'll break down misconceptions about PBIS being just a reward system and highlight its deeper role in appreciating and recognizing student efforts. From second to fifth-grade classrooms, witness how leadership or goal-setting binders are fostering a sense of ownership and leadership among students, creating an environment where they are motivated to set and track their goals. As we wrap up this incredible season, our heartfelt gratitude goes out to every teacher, listener, and expert who has supported us. We are thrilled to return in the fall with more advanced topics, including tier two strategies, and we encourage you to stay connected with us via email. Reflect with us on the meaningful interactions and progress made throughout the school year, and join us in celebrating the student growth and achievements that have made this journey so rewarding. Thank you for being an integral part of PBIS Journey to Genius, and we look forward to exploring even more impactful educational strategies together soon! https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35 [https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35]

Episode 22 Highlighting Triumphs of Youth with Student-Driven Achievement Binders

While Dianne basks in the Florida sun, I’m here to take you through an intimate exploration of student empowerment. Imagine a tool so transformative that it allows children to witness their own unfolding potential; that's the magic we're discussing today through the voices of these young leaders. These remarkable students open their leadership binders and let us peek inside their academic and personal growth journeys, showing us just how powerful taking charge of one's own progress can be. Whether it's mastering the realm of mathematics or setting meaningful behavior goals, these binders are more than mere organizational tools—they are the pages of self-discovery and affirmation for the young leaders of tomorrow. In a moment of poignant reflection, we also weave through the narrative of a student who, despite physical challenges, charts a heartening course of personal milestones. From an "all about me" chart to the steps taken post-surgery, this story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our youth and the educators who stand by them. It's a celebration of mentorship, the strength drawn from community, and the joy found in self-realization. Join me as we honor the dedication of teachers, mentors, and the soulful strides of our students—it's an episode that promises to spark gratitude and inspire pride in the collective effort to lift our children towards their brightest futures. https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35 [https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35]

Episode 21 Building a Blueprint for Student Success with Granville's PBIS Model

Have you ever wondered what draws someone into the world of education? In our latest episode of PBIS: Journey to Genius, we had the pleasure of hosting Tracy Stewart and Travis Morris from Granville Elementary, who revealed to us their heartfelt tales of entering the educational sphere. Tracy's lineage is steeped in teaching tradition, while Travis' path was less direct, yet both are united by a passion for nurturing the next generation. They shared with us the simple, everyday moments that affirm their commitment to their roles, and the profound impact of fostering genuine connections within their school community. We ventured together into the creative world of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and discovered how Granville Elementary's personalized sticker system is making waves. Tracy and Travis detailed the power of acknowledgment through strength-based conversations and goal-setting, demonstrating how these initiatives form building blocks for an inclusive, optimistic school culture. Their blue ace visions are not mere whimsy; they are strategic, serving the students' diverse needs and leading to a comprehensive framework that supports every child's journey. As Dianne Ferrell and Diane Ruff signed off this episode, we looked back at the influential voices that have shaped PBIS over the past decade and teased future discussions on advanced interventions. We extended our gratitude to our vibrant community of educators and listeners who have taken this journey with us. Thank you for tuning in, and we invite you to become a part of our mission to empower teachers and support students as they grow into their best selves. Don't forget to connect with us on our social channels and join the conversation in empowering the education community. https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35 [https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35]

Episode 20 Celebrating the Legacy of Phil Heflin: PBIS and the Art of Inspiration in High School Education

Embark on an educational odyssey with the wisdom of Phil Heflin, a retired educator whose 37-year legacy is marked by transforming lives within the classroom walls. Our latest episode captures the heartwarming tales of a man whose journey from academic hardship to beloved teacher and administrator embodies the spirit of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Phil's stories resonate with the power of personal connections, the moments that spark a student's passion, and the gentle art of acknowledgment that can turn an ordinary classroom into a haven of inspiration. High school may seem like a tough nut to crack with PBIS, but Phil breaks down these barriers, sharing innovative tactics that ditch the textbook for the human touch. His exciting recount of 'Why We Love Wednesday,' the laughter behind crazy pants Fridays, and the simple joy of a sticker or a cookie remind us that adolescence is still a time for fun, discovery, and yes, a little bit of sweetness. Teachers and students alike bask in the culture of recognition that Phil fostered, proving that encouragement doesn't just belong to the young but thrives at any age, in any educational stage. As our conversation comes to an end, Phil leaves us not just with anecdotes but with actionable insights into crafting a high school environment where every student feels valued. Understanding the subtle mechanics of PBIS at the high school level empowers us to perceive the potential in every student. So join us for a heartfelt episode that celebrates the ingenuity and dedication of one man's mission to nurture the genius in every student, and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions that promise to transform the way we approach education. https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35 [https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35]

Episode 19 Inspiring Intrinsic Motivation in Second Graders through PBIS and Leadership Tools

Ever wondered how the delicate art of positive reinforcement can ignite a child’s intrinsic motivation? Let us take you by the hand and walk you through the enchanting world of PBIS, where our second-grade heroes, Lynda Jones and Susan Zifer, weave tales of triumph, heartfelt reasons for choosing the teaching path and the sheer magic of personalized acknowledgment systems. Their approach isn’t just about doling out rewards; it’s about using peer interactions and the power of recognition to foster strong relationships and encourage students to take ownership of their behavior and learning. Imagine a place where students not only learn but also lead, and where their growth is as visible to them as it is to their teachers. Our discussion unfurls the transformative potential of student binder organization, a project that evolved over time from a skeptic's trial to a robust self-managed system that propels young learners toward setting goals and celebrating their personal journey. These binders, brimming with achievements and reflections, illustrate how a simple organizational tool can develop into a source of pride and a stepping stone for self-motivated learning. Finally, these tools not only empower students to articulate their progress but also serve as precious keepsakes of their academic and personal milestones. Whether you're in the classroom, at home, or simply passionate about education's potential, this episode promises insights and inspiration to help you start small and build impactful educational practices. Join us and tap into the wisdom that Lynda and Susan,  share, as we celebrate the spirit of teaching and the incredible capacity of our students to learn, lead, and grow. https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35 [https://www.pbisapps.org/articles/episode-35]