Santee School District schools have been recognized by the California PBIS Coalition (CPC) for their successful implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), earning either Silver or Gold level recognition.
This honor reflects each school’s excellence in putting the core features of PBIS into practice and highlights their commitment to creating the conditions that maximize social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes for all students. With more than 2,500 schools across California applying for recognition this year, earning this distinction places Santee School District schools among an elite group of leaders in PBIS implementation.
“This recognition highlights the intentional work happening across our district to build positive school cultures where students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to reach their potential,” said Dr. Kristin Baranski, Superintendent.
PBIS is an evidence-based framework that uses a team-based, multi-tiered approach to improve behavior and academic outcomes for all students in a school setting. It focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors while discouraging negative ones through universal, targeted, and individualized supports within a consistent, data-driven system. The goal is to create a positive school climate, reduce problematic behaviors such as suspensions, and increase student and staff well-being.
PBIS is a standard practice across all Santee School District schools and the Expanded Learning Programs before and after school curriculum. Staff receive ongoing training and support to implement PBIS strategies effectively, and schools use program tracking to monitor progress and ensure fidelity. This districtwide commitment helps create consistent, positive learning environments across every school site.
California PBIS launched its statewide recognition system in 2015 to acknowledge schools for their commitment to implementing PBIS with fidelity to the national framework. Schools may earn recognition at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum level.
The Santee School District schools recognized this year include:
- Carlton Hills - Gold
- Carlton Oaks - Gold
- Chet F. Harritt - Silver
- Hill Creek - Gold
- Pepper Drive - Gold
- PRIDE Academy - Silver
- Rio Seco - Silver
- Sycamore Canyon - Silver
The California PBIS Coalition expressed its gratitude to all schools that applied for recognition, noting that the dedication and commitment of educators and staff is a major contributing factor to the excellence in education across the state.
About PBIS
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a framework that helps schools create positive learning environments through proactive strategies, data-driven decision-making, and consistent support for all students. Learn more at https://pbisca.org/.