Mokena Elementary School has recently been recognized by the Midwest PBIS Network for their work in implementing an equitable, multi-tiered system of support for the second year in a row. This school-wide framework aims to close achievement gaps and increase the number of students who graduate ready for college or a career. This framework helps schools increase the consistency of effective instruction for all students, build staff knowledge and skills to support all learners, use data proactively to proactively identify and provide targeted behavior support for students, and continue to maintain a culture that supports stronger relationships with students and their families.
As a result of the school’s work, they have been recognized and celebrated for their efforts. To earn this achievement, schools must meet specific criteria that the PBIS Network has established. Mokena Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Rachel Chorley, shared the following about the school’s award, “Being recognized for our PBIS implementation is a reflection of the intentional work our staff does every day to create a school where students feel safe, supported, and successful. At MES, we know that academic success and positive behavior go hand in hand. Students need a safe and orderly environment to be able to effectively participate in instruction. I tell students that when everyone is following expectations all students learn and grow. By explicitly teaching expectations, recognizing positive choices, and providing support when students need it, we are building the foundation that allows every child to thrive. This recognition belongs to our entire MES community who work together to keep us anchored in excellence.”
This recognition program encourages schools and districts during the implementation of their framework and helps them celebrate progress. This is the sixteenth year of implementation of the PBIS framework at Mokena Elementary School. The framework continues to evolve as they learn new strategies to meet the ever changing needs of their students.
“We are so thrilled to receive this award again, as it shows that we are being recognized for creating a positive and supportive learning environment for our students. Our staff truly understands the importance of explicitly teaching and enforcing clear behavioral expectations. We know that a reduction in behavior concerns directly leads to an increase in academic success for our students. I am so proud of our Tier 1 PBIS Committee and our entire MES staff for implementing PBIS with fidelity, so that our teachers can focus on teaching,” expressed Mrs. Andrea Lacny, Third Grade Special Education Teacher and PBIS Coach.