Student support system to be implemented for Carlynton 7th and 8th graders

The success of a “Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports” model at Crafton Elementary School has Carlynton officials implementing a similar system at the junior high level.

The district received a $3,750 grant from the Highmark Foundation to establish the model for seventh and eighth grade students.

“The Foundation supports the integral role schools play in students’ well-being through preventative health programs and early intervention initiatives, and this program demonstrates that commitment,” said Highmark Foundation President Yvonne Cook.

District secretary Rachel Byerly said that a district goal for the 2024-25 school year is to implement a strong PBIS system for seventh and eighth grade students. Marsha Burelson, who was recently named principal at the junior-senior high school, built a successful PBIS program while at Crafton, Byerly said.

“During her time at Crafton, she worked closely with her team of teachers, counselors and psychologists to implement the PBIS model,” Byerly said. “The model at Crafton is student centered and has a significant impact on students. Due to the success of the program, the PBIS model at Crafton was recognized by the Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Network.”

In applying for the grant, district officials said they will integrate a concept where all 202 seventh and eighth grade students, and 27 staff members, are assigned to a “house” for activities and support. The idea behind the house participation is to build a tight-knit community for students to feel valued and supported.

The houses will compete in positive ways, and encourage good grades, behavior and participation in school events, district officials said. Competitions are based on PBIS framework with positive behaviors taught, modeled and reinforced daily.

Students will earn points for their houses by good grades, behavior and attendance. Those points contribute to monthly and end-of-year rewards and incentives.

The program aims to support district goals, which, outlined in the application, are to increase daily school attendance and decrease detentions and suspensions.