Language matters. Over the past several years, the BEST Project/VTPBIS Team and the National PBIS TA Center have worked on analyzing, reflecting, and shifting PBIS terms to be more equitable, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed.
The following are the current terms we are using in Vermont. However, simply shifting the language will not accomplish the goal of more effective and equitable PBIS implementation. The mindset change that goes along with these language changes is also critical. For more information about the language changes, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your VTPBIS TA or coach.
VTPBIS Language Changes | |
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Define expectations/agreements. Use “we are … (safe, responsible, etc.)” |
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Teach and practice prosocial behaviors (to fluency) |
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Acknowledge and provide feedback on prosocial behaviors |
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Prevent and respond instructionally to interfering behavior through a continuum of supports |
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Make decisions based on data |
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Student Support Plan (SSP) |
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Interfering Behavior |
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Setting Conditions |
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Outcome Behavior |
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FBA and SSP Form |
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Families/Caregivers | Parents |
Collective Ownership | Buy-In |