This web article presents research into improving school climate by implementing guidelines that are based upon research and science, addressing the underlying causes of negative behavior, and replacing punishment with efforts to develop positive behavior and social skills.
There is a growing desire to improve school climate by implementing guidelines that are based upon research and science, addressing the underlying causes of negative behavior, and replacing punishment with efforts to develop positive behavior and social skills. With support from the National Institute of Justice, researchers from the University of South Carolina employed and evaluated the Interconnected Systems Framework to address the limitations of two popular support systems in use today: Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, and School Mental Health services. The Interconnected Systems Framework was designed to provide specific guidance on interconnecting the systems. The first-of-its-kind work presented in this article highlights aspects of the Interconnected Systems Framework that are working well, such as improving identification and provision of Tier 2 (early intervention) and Tier 3 (treatment) services for students in need, reducing student discipline, and improving perceptions of school safety.