If there’s one thing I hope more schools reconsider, it’s the PBIS store—whether digital or in-person. In theory, these systems reward positive behavior. In practice, they often drain staff time, school budgets, and student attention—without strengthening the community we’re trying to build. The heart of PBIS isn’t about prizes. It’s about connection, values, and specific, timely feedback. If you’re looking for alternatives to the school store, this article offers a better way.
-by Dr. Timothy Grivois, Executive Director
PBIS Stores: An Expensive Distraction
In many online educator communities, you’ll find post after post about setting up digital points systems and online PBIS stores. The goal? To motivate students with tangible rewards. But when you step back, the cost—in time, energy, and alignment with your school’s values—is hard to justify.
Who’s Running the PBIS Store?
Staff assigned to manage a PBIS store are pulled away from their core roles. Volunteers require coordination and training. Even digital versions demand time and tech know-how. Many schools give up—not because stores don’t work, but because running one just isn’t sustainable.
Inventory Isn’t Free
Even if you’re lucky enough to have donations or budget funds for inventory, sourcing and managing rewards takes effort. And if the items you’re giving away could’ve just been handed to students without a points system… do you really need a store?
Time and Space Matter
PBIS stores also take up physical or digital space—and student time. Whether it’s at lunch, after school, or during class, shopping for rewards means something else has to be put on hold: family, learning, relationships.
The Bigger Issue: Missed Moments for Positive Feedback
Even if your store runs smoothly, it won’t improve your PBIS system. Recognition that works is immediate, specific, and connected to values. By the time a student turns in points for a prize, the behavior you meant to reinforce is a distant memory. What really matters is the feedback they got in the moment.
Better Alternatives (That Actually Work)
You don’t need a store to recognize students. In fact, some of the best systems are simple, free, and focused on feedback:
– A smiley emoji
– A sticker on a Trello board
– A quick note on a Jamboard
– A kind word at the right time
The key is connecting the feedback to school values:
“I noticed you showing empathy when you included your classmate in the game.”
“That took resilience—trying again even when the tech didn’t work.”
Final Thought: Recognition, Not Rewards
PBIS isn’t about transactions—it’s about relationships. A store may seem like a shortcut to motivation, but real change comes from consistent, values-driven feedback. The good news? That kind of recognition system doesn’t cost a dime.
Rethinking Rewards
Looking for help designing a recognition system that reflects your school’s values and supports every student? Here’s a free video training session to get you started.