What Is Tier 1 PBIS?

Overview

Tier 1 PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) is the foundation of the PBIS framework. It includes the schoolwide expectations, routines, and supports that all students receive. Tier 1 focuses on building a positive, predictable, and safe school climate by teaching behaviors proactively rather than reacting to misbehavior. About 80–85% of students will succeed with Tier 1 supports alone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why do schools use it? 

Schools implement Tier 1 PBIS because it:

  • Reduces problem behaviors through prevention and clarity.

  • Improves academic outcomes by minimizing disruptions.

  • Creates consistency across classrooms, teachers, and grade levels.

  • Increases teacher and student confidence in expectations.

  • Promotes equity by ensuring all students are taught expectations directly.

PBIS is not a program—it is a framework for making decisions using data, evidence-based practices, and

consistent schoolwide systems.

 

 

 

What does Tier 1 PBIS mean?

Tier 1 PBIS means the entire school community (students, teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, administrators, and families) follows the same:

  • Expectations

  • Procedures

  • Acknowledgment system

  • Behavior language

PBIS ensures that a student can walk anywhere in the school and know exactly what behavior is expected. This consistency reduces anxiety, increases safety, and supports social-emotional success.