When I support schools implementing PBIS, leaders often ask, “Are we using our PBIS student recognition system the right way?” or “Do tickets even matter anymore?”
During a recent focus group at Orange Grove, a team of educators helped explore those very questions. Their PBIS student recognition system—Panther Tickets—was once a vibrant part of school culture. But by spring, its impact had faded.
-by Dr. Tim Grivois, Executive Director
Our conversation didn’t produce easy answers. Instead, it revealed what actually makes a PBIS student recognition system effective—and why it’s never just about the ticket.
Why a PBIS Student Recognition System Is More Than a Ticket
At Orange Grove, teachers agreed: a Panther Ticket on its own doesn’t create culture. The power lies in the moment of recognition—when an adult says, “I saw what you did, and it matters.”
For some students, especially sixth graders, the tickets felt exciting and visible. For others, especially older students, private affirmations carried more weight. Regardless of format, the takeaway was clear: authentic, values-based feedback has the most impact.
“It’s not hard to tell a kid they did something good. The ticket just helps anchor the moment.”
A Developmentally Appropriate PBIS Recognition System Works Best
As students grow, so does the way they receive feedback. Sixth graders may proudly display tickets on their lanyards. By eighth grade, many want recognition—but not necessarily public attention.
Some teachers asked students directly, “Would you like a ticket for that?” Others used stickers or quiet one-on-one acknowledgments. These small adjustments allowed the PBIS student recognition system to grow alongside the students it served.
Recognition doesn’t need to be uniform. In fact, when it adapts to student needs, it becomes more meaningful.
When a PBIS Student Recognition System Stalls
Midyear, Orange Grove’s recognition system lost momentum. Students noticed fewer celebrations. Voting stopped. One student summed it up: “There’s no point in tickets anymore. We don’t even vote.”
This wasn’t failure—it was feedback. Recognition systems don’t need bells and whistles. But they do need clarity, consistency, and visible follow-through.
When students stop seeing purpose, the system needs tuning, not tossing.
5 Keys to a Strong PBIS Student Recognition System
Based on the insights from Orange Grove, here are five core elements that help student recognition systems thrive:
1. A Clear Purpose
Everyone should know why the system exists. It’s not about behavior control or compliance—it’s about uplifting behaviors that reflect your school’s values.
2. Authentic Feedback
Forget scripts. Focus on sincerity. Say what you saw, connect it to a value, and make it sound like you.
3. Flexible Tools
Tickets, stickers, thank-you cards, or a simple nod can all work—if they’re used with intention.
4. Student Voice Essential in a PBIS Student Recognition System
Invite students to shape the system. Let them nominate peers, vote on recognitions, or even write notes to staff.
5. Visible Follow-Through
Recognition must go somewhere. Even if there’s no prize, post it, announce it, or celebrate it in a way that keeps it alive.
For more ideas on improving schoolwide practices, see PBIS101: More Than the Basics.
Conclusion: Recognition Rooted in Relationships
Orange Grove’s experience highlights a truth I see often: a PBIS student recognition system is only as strong as its foundation of trust and purpose. The most effective systems reflect school values, grow with students, and stay grounded in connection—not control.
At TGS Educational Consulting, we help schools design recognition practices that feel real, not routine. Panther Tickets don’t have to be perfect to work—they just need to be part of a system built on noticing, naming, and nurturing what’s good.
Call to Action
Want to refresh your PBIS student recognition system and make it more meaningful?
Start with this free toolkit:
PBIS Resources for Schools
Or schedule a call—no pressure, just practical ideas that work.