Benjamin Turner Academy kickoff PBIS and i-Ready programs

The sound of lively music and the smell of popcorn filled the cafeteria of Benjamin Turner Academy on Friday, September 27, 2024, as the school celebrated the kick off of their Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and i-Ready programs. 

PBIS provides a structure for establishing expectations and promoting positive behavior in a school environment. It is a research-based approach that promotes students’ behavioral, academic, social, emotional, and mental well-being.  

“BTA’s theme for the year is that we are focused on success,” said Assistant Principal Raisa Turner. “FOCUS means that we are being Friendly and kind, Organized, Curious, United, and Safe. We were able to purchase PBIS Rewards System, and this was to promote the positive behaviors that align with FOCUS, letting the kids know that teachers and staff can now give them points for doing the right things. Once they earn points, they can earn rewards. We are aligning it with i-Ready, which is also a push for this year, and making sure that they know and reach their academic i-Ready goals.  

During the assembly, students learned more about PBIS and how they can earn points, which they can exchange for prizes such as books from the school store.  

One of the ways they can earn points is through i-Ready, an online program that provides students with a personalized learning path for both reading and math. Students must complete three reading lessons and three math lessons on i-Ready per week in order to earn points. They can also earn points by practicing positive behavior in the classroom and during other curriculum activities, such as gym.  

After the assembly, students went outside to enjoy treats, dance, and jump around in the bouncy house. BTA students also received a visit from the Mount Vernon Fire Department, where they talked to students about elementary fire safety skills.