When PBIS staff training is done effectively, it doesn’t feel like just another checklist. It becomes your school’s core values—lived out loud by every student and staff member every day.
-by Dr. Tim Grivois, Executive Director
Too often, PBIS is designed by a small leadership team and then presented to staff for feedback. While well-intentioned, this top-down approach can feel disconnected from classroom realities and miss the wisdom of the full team. At TGS, I take a different route—one that builds PBIS with staff, not for them. This whole-school approach creates stronger ownership, more relevant systems, and a culture where everyone contributes to lasting change.
Real success in PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) relies on a whole-school approach. Effective PBIS staff training means ensuring every adult is confident using the same language, practices, and goals.
If you’re exploring PBIS staff training strategies, here are four proven approaches to help your team succeed:
1. Start PBIS Staff Training with Values, Not Checklists
Effective PBIS staff training begins with your school’s shared values, not a rigid matrix. Staff need clarity and connection to understand why PBIS matters.
Begin your training sessions by addressing these key questions:
- What behaviors do we want our students to learn?
- How do we want our school community to feel?
- How can staff support each other?
Connecting PBIS directly to school values increases buy-in and makes staff training feel meaningful.
2. Simplify PBIS Staff Training and Reinforce Key Practices
Avoid overwhelming your staff by simplifying your PBIS staff training into clear, manageable phases:
- Phase 1: Teach basic schoolwide expectations and recognition strategies.
- Phase 2: Use behavior data collaboratively to address real-time challenges.
- Phase 3: Introduce and practice Tier 2 strategies (e.g., Check-In/Check-Out, social skills groups).
Repeated exposure and practice help staff internalize PBIS concepts and consistently apply them.
3. Provide Ongoing Coaching Beyond Initial PBIS Staff Training
PBIS staff training shouldn’t stop after the initial workshop. Consistent, ongoing coaching supports sustainable change.
Consider incorporating:
- Peer walkthroughs: Teachers visit each other’s classrooms to observe PBIS strategies.
- Instructional coaching: Regular feedback and problem-solving sessions tailored to student needs.
- Collaborative planning: Time for teachers, counselors, and specialists to coordinate Tier 2 interventions.
Coaching reinforces PBIS training content, making it practical and sustainable.
4. Anticipate Staff Pushback as Part of the Process
Resistance to PBIS is common. Treat pushback as valuable feedback during staff training sessions. Common concerns include:
- Skepticism about effectiveness
- Negative past experiences
- Feelings of overwhelm
Address these openly and empathetically. Invite staff into conversation, making PBIS flexible and responsive rather than rigid.
Whole-School PBIS Means Everyone is Included
Effective PBIS staff training isn’t a top-down initiative—it’s a shared journey. When every staff member speaks the same PBIS language and practices shared strategies, behavioral support transforms from a program into your school’s culture.
That’s how PBIS becomes powerful—not because it’s a mandate, but because everyone genuinely believes in and contributes to its success.
Ready for Effective PBIS Staff Training?
At TGS Educational Consulting, we provide practical PBIS staff training tailored to your school’s unique context. Whether online or in-person, our sessions focus on meaningful, lasting change. Contact us to get started! It’s free, and you’ll leave our conversation ready to lead.