skip to main content

Tier 1 Interventions

Key Point
Tier 1 supports should meet the needs of at least 80% of students. If students continue to struggle despite strong Tier 1 implementation, Tier 2 or Tier 3 supports may be needed.

Key Point
Tier 1 supports should meet the needs of at least 80% of students. If students continue to struggle despite strong Tier 1 implementation, Tier 2 or Tier 3 supports may be needed.

PBIS Tier 1 Interventions (Universal Supports)  

PBIS Tier 1 Interventions (Universal Supports)  

1. Clearly Defined Expectations

-3–5 schoolwide behavior expectations (e.g., Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible)
  • Expectations explicitly taught in:
    • Classrooms
    • Hallways
    • Playground
    • Cafeteria
    • Restrooms

2. Explicit Teaching of Behavior

  • Direct instruction on what expected behavior looks like and sounds like
  • Modeling and role-playing appropriate behaviors
  • Practice opportunities with feedback
  • Regular reteaching after breaks or when issues arise

3. Positive Reinforcement Systems

  • Verbal praise tied to expectations
  • Schoolwide acknowledgment system (tickets, points, praise notes)
  • Classroom reward systems
  • Celebrations for meeting behavior goals (individual and classwide)

4. Consistent Routines & Structure

  • Predictable daily schedules
  • Clear classroom procedures (lining up, transitions, materials use)
  • Visual schedules and reminders
  • Advance warnings before transitions

5. Active Supervision

-Adults:
    • Move around the space
    • Scan student behavior
    • Interact positively with students
    • Provide immediate feedback

6. Positive Teacher–Student Relationships

  • Greeting students daily
  • Building rapport and trust
  • Frequent positive interactions (aim for 4–5 positives per correction)
  • Knowing students’ interests and strengths

7. Classroom Management Strategies

  • Clear rules aligned with schoolwide expectations
  • Consistent responses to behavior
  • Calm, respectful correction of misbehavior
  • Opportunities for student voice and choice

8. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Instruction

-Teaching skills such as:
    • Self-regulation
    • Problem solving
    • Emotional awareness
    • Conflict resolution
-Morning meetings or class circles
-Integration into academic lessons

9. Data Monitoring

  • Schoolwide behavior data review
  • Monitoring trends (locations, times, behaviors)
  • Adjusting instruction and supports based on data

10. Family Communication

  • Sharing behavior expectations with families
  • Positive home communication
  • Consistent messaging between school and home