I’ve walked into classrooms where yesterday’s challenges linger long after the school day ended. A student slumped in their chair, avoiding eye contact, already convinced today will mirror the difficulties of yesterday: too many redirections, too many struggles, and a growing belief that things won’t change. That’s when PBIS CICO (Check-In/Check-Out) proves itself as more than just a behavior intervention. It’s a daily reset—a deliberate practice in helping students leave yesterday behind, start fresh, and regain confidence.
-by Dr. Tim Grivois, Executive Director
How PBIS CICO Creates a Fresh Start
Everyone knows how a bad day can bleed into the next. For students facing behavior or emotional challenges, a single bad day can easily multiply, making success feel out of reach.
The strength of PBIS CICO lies in breaking that cycle. By providing structured support at the start and end of each day, CICO shifts the focus away from past setbacks and toward future possibilities.
When educators implement CICO thoughtfully, students learn that their worth isn’t tied to yesterday’s outcomes.
Check-In: Starting the Day with Encouragement
An effective PBIS CICO check-in isn’t merely a formality—it’s a moment of genuine connection. Here’s how to start the day right:
– Brief and Positive: “You’ve got this today. Let’s aim for small wins, especially in math.”
– Goal-Oriented: Guide students to set achievable daily goals: “Today, let’s work on raising your hand if you need help.”
– Strength-Based: Affirm the student’s positive traits: “You’re persistent, and I appreciate your determination.”
A thoughtful check-in communicates clearly: Yesterday doesn’t limit who you can be today.
Read more about goal-setting strategies for CICO here
Check-Out: Reflecting on Progress
By the afternoon check-out, students often have a clear sense of what didn’t go as planned. Our role is to help them notice the progress they’ve made, however small:
– Highlight Strengths: “I saw you manage frustration during group work—that’s great progress.”
– Encourage Reflection: “Lining up after recess seemed challenging. What could we adjust tomorrow?”
– Leave with Hope: “You’re working hard. I know tomorrow will build on today’s progress.”
The PBIS CICO check-out isn’t about scoring the day as good or bad; it’s about recognizing growth, effort, and potential.
PBIS CICO Is More Than Behavior Support
Every student deserves multiple opportunities to reset each day. The essence of PBIS CICO is providing these critical moments of renewal, transforming daily routines into meaningful relationships and restoring students’ confidence.
Research consistently shows that relationship-focused interventions like PBIS CICO significantly enhance students’ self-regulation and academic engagement.
Explore the evidence at PBIS.org.
Tips to Maximize PBIS CICO’s Impact
Whether you currently use PBIS CICO or are considering implementing it, here are ways to increase its effectiveness:
– Personalize Check-ins: Customize interactions to each student’s specific needs and goals.
– Prioritize Relationships: Ensure students view CICO as an opportunity to connect with caring adults.
– Celebrate Incremental Success: Recognize small victories to build momentum and motivation.
– Involve Families: Collaborate with families to reinforce positive messaging consistently.
PBIS CICO: A Commitment to Fresh Starts
When reflecting on the students I’ve supported through PBIS CICO, their struggles don’t stand out to me nearly as much as their resilience—the willingness to return, day after day, willing to try again.
PBIS CICO embodies our commitment to students: “Yesterday is done. Today is yours.”
This is more than an intervention—it’s how we demonstrate belief in every student’s potential to grow, thrive, and succeed. Every child deserves a daily reset, and PBIS CICO ensures they get it.
(Also, notice how we never talked about point cards once…let’s talk and I’ll show you why.)