North Gwinnett News

More than 70 schools in Gwinnett County have been acknowledged by the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) for their implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) during the 2023-2024 academic year. PBIS is a framework that relies on evidence and data to reduce disciplinary incidents, enhance school safety, and improve academic results. It helps in selecting and applying effective behavioral practices to improve student behavior outcomes.

The GaDOE has recognized 12 schools as "Distinguished" for their successful implementation of PBIS. These schools include Baggett ES, Cedar Hill ES, Five Forks MS, Harmony ES, Hopkins ES, Kanoheda ES, Knight ES, Lilburn ES, Meadowcreek ES, Sugar Hill ES, Sweetwater MS, and Trickum MS.

Schools with the Distinguished designation receive several benefits: a letter of recognition from State Superintendent Richard Woods; a signed certificate from Superintendent Woods; five bonus points recommended for School Climate Star Rating; listing on the GaDOE-PBIS webpage as an active PBIS school; eligibility to serve as demonstration sites for other schools or dignitaries; and potential invitations to present at state conferences and webinars.

Additionally, 61 Gwinnett schools have been recognized as "Operational" Schools. This includes 39 elementary schools such as Alcova ES and Alford ES; 13 middle schools including Berkmar MS and Coleman MS; five high schools like Central Gwinnett HS and Meadowcreek HS; along with four other educational institutions such as Buice Center and Gwinnett Online Campus.

Each year, GaDOE honors schools that foster a positive school climate through PBIS implementation. The recognition system aims to identify exemplary practices in implementing PBIS. The framework supports building systems capacity for social, emotional, and behavioral support using a multi-tiered approach. Over 1,400 Georgia schools and 27,000 nationwide have received training in PBIS.