Bryan County Schools announced six schools recently received the Georgia Department of Education’s highest recognition for their work with Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports implementation. 

 Lanier Primary, Richmond Hill Primary, Richmond Hill Elementary, Bryan County Elementary, McAllister Elementary and Richmond Hill Middle received the Five Star School Climate Rating, the district said.

 “PBIS is an evidence-based, data-driven framework proven to reduce disciplinary incidents, increase a school’s sense of safety and support improved academic outcomes,” according to the release. “PBIS is a preventative and proactive framework proven to improve school climate by promoting positive relationships between school personnel, students, families, and other stakeholders. The premise of PBIS is that continual teaching, combined with acknowledgement or feedback of positive student behavior will reduce unnecessary discipline and promote a climate of greater productivity, safety and learning.”

 Bryan County Schools Superintendent Dr. Paul Brooksher said PBIS is working.

 “PBIS has greatly decreased our discipline issues and our school staff are able to spend more time in quality academic instruction,” Brooksher said. “I am proud of the commitment by these schools’ staff and leadership teams to help students better manage their behaviors and refine their problem-solving skills. These strategies create a safer and more positive school environment.”