Bloom 206 Brings the Positivity Through New Framework

This school year Bloom District 206 is introducing a Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) framework for teaching and reinforcing positive behavior expectations in our schools.

Incorporating a PBIS framework includes creating building-wide expectations that are taught to all students so that everyone has a common understanding of what makes a successful student. PBIS focuses on what positive behaviors everyone should display as opposed to giving students a list of “don'ts.”

All of the district schools have implemented the new framework. Bloom Trail worked collaboratively over the summer, with a group of administrators, teachers, and paraprofessionals developing the school's new CREW framework. CREW stands for Community, Responsible, Engaged, and Worthy.

Community - how we treat and take care of each other
Responsible - how we make positive decisions
Engaged - how we commit to our learning
Worthy - how we deserve to succeed and be happy

History teacher Gary Flaig was one of the team members who worked on the school’s framework over the summer. “Too often we focus on the negative, and our CREW philosophy is a chance for us to elevate and acknowledge the positive behavior of our students,” Flaig said. “Our students do great things every day, and they fully deserve this recognition.”

The school staff has implemented a building-wide matrix that details what CREW expectations look like. In the school hallways, the cafeteria, the bus, and several other places, students are finding statements such as “we respect each other’s views and voices because we are a community” and “we have a growth mindset because we are worthy.”

Teachers are working with their students to develop a CREW matrix for their classrooms with challenges and rewards tied to demonstrating CREW behaviors.

“Our CREW is excited about the positive changes PBIS can bring to our community,” said Matt Kunkel, Student Assistance Coordinator. “While there are still consequences for negative behavior, the focus is on rewarding the positive behavior and having a positive outlook on our school day, student body, staff, and building. By rewarding the positive behavior with a couple of CREW Cash dollars, verbal praise, or even a gift card, students find the value in doing what is right and it becomes contagious throughout the building and community.”