WAPS schools receive statewide recognition for PBIS 

Winona Middle School is a champion of positive school culture, according to the Minnesota Department of Education. 

So, too, are Jefferson Elementary and Washington-Kosciusko Elementary. 

For the first time, Winona Middle School has been recognized by the Minnesota Department of Education for efforts toward improving school climate. 

The three schools are among the 97 in the state who are being celebrated by MDE for their sustained commitment to implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), an evidence-based framework for positive and prosocial behaviors. 

This is the first time WMS is being recognized, while Jefferson and W-K are being honored for the fifth year in a row. 

PBIS was first implemented at the elementary level in WAPS in the 2019-2020 school year and has grown in popularity among students, staff and teachers. PBIS is an approach for helping schools select and organize evidence-based behavioral interventions that enhance outcomes for all students. The underlying theme is to teach behavioral expectations in the same way schools teach academic subjects.

By creating a positive school climate and culture, PBIS has been shown to improve student outcomes, reduce disciplinary incidents and increase student engagement.

To be recognized by the state, schools and districts must meet several requirements and sustain these efforts over time to be honored and recognized. Staff buy-in, leadership team meetings, community and family involvement, large systems changes and multiple data sources are used to create this impact.  

There are only 16 other schools in the Southern Minnesota Region to receive this recognition. 

All of the schools will be honored by MDE at an Aug. 12 recognition ceremony.