Durable Implementation of School-Wide Behavior Support.

The High Five Program

The High Five Program incorporates strategies associated with positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) and was developed and implemented by the staff of Fern Ridge Middle School in September of the 1994-1995 school year. Then and now, all students and staff at Fern Ridge Middle School adhere to the High Fives:

1. Be Respectful

2. Be Responsible

3. Follow Directions

4. Keep Hands and Feet to Self

5. Be There--Be Ready

These student expectations were introduced into the school culture in response to over 5,000 discipline referrals written during the 1993-1994 school year. During this period of time, the school culture was, for the most part, negative and reactive. React to students--write referrals. There weren't consistent expectations for students, and staff seldom engaged in proactive problem solving with students. The most at-risk students often were excluded from school for long periods of time.

Today, Fern Ridge Middle School looks and feels entirely different. Today, staff and parents take pride in fostering a safe learning …