Habits of Character (PBIS)
At Big Thompson Elementary, we help students build positive habits that support learning, relationships, and our school community.
Our Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) approach gives students clear, consistent expectations throughout the school day. Whether students are learning in the classroom, eating lunch, playing outside, or moving through the building, we encourage three Habits of Character:
Respect
I can listen. I think others are important.
We show respect by using kind words and actions, listening to others, giving people appropriate space, and taking care of our school and natural environment.
Responsibility
I am kind and helpful. I do my best.
We take responsibility for our choices, belongings and shared spaces. We follow directions, use materials safely, clean up after ourselves and help create an environment where everyone can learn.
Reflect and Revise
I am a critical thinker. I can do better.
We recognize that learning includes making mistakes. Students are encouraged to think about their choices, consider what worked, and make changes when something is not working.
These habits are introduced in developmentally appropriate ways. For our youngest learners, for example, the expectations are expressed through simple statements such as “I can listen,” “I am kind and helpful,” and “I can do better.”
Our Habits Throughout the School
Students practice Respect, Responsibility, and Reflect and Revise in different ways depending on where they are and what they are doing.
Learning, Reflecting, and Repairing Harm
PBIS is about more than following rules. By teaching and practicing consistent expectations, we help students understand how their choices affect themselves and others.
When problems occur, restorative practices may be paired with appropriate consequences. Students may have opportunities to reflect on what happened, repair harm, and, when necessary, provide restitution. Our goal is to support everyone involved while helping students learn from their choices and make better decisions in the future.