Behavior Evaluations & Interventions

Positive behavior support plans (PBSP) are typically used for students exhibiting severe behavior that is impeding learning. The results of a functional behavior assessment (FBA) guides teams in creating the PBSP to ensure the student’s complex needs are supported.  

Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)

Functional behavior assessments (FBA) are based on the science of behavior. An FBA is a process to collect and study data to better understand what may be prompting the behavior which occurs and to understand the function of the behavior. FBAs are also addressed in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Parents of a child with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can request an FBA when their child’s behaviors interfere with learning or when their child has a placement changed due to disciplinary reasons. The results of the FBA may aid teachers, parents, and providers in using strategies and supports to reduce or replace the behavior with more appropriate behavior. 

Positive behavior support plans (PBSP)

A positive behavior support plan (PBSP) is a written improvement plan created for a student based on the outcome of the FBA. The FBA should identify what is maintaining or causing a challenging behavior, and the PBSP specifies the actions to take to improve or replace the behavior. A PBSP is not a punishment but an individualized plan for success with more intensive supports and oversight. A PBSP could result in changes in instruction, types of support or intervention, or the environment. A PBSP focuses on teaching alternate behaviors that meet the student’s needs and serves the same function as the behavior of concern. The process of creating a PBSP is led by the IEP team and includes the parent/guardian, teachers, support staff, and the student. 

A FBA/PBSP guidance manual from Kent Intermediate School District is available to support the development of plans through the Michigan PowerSchool Special Education System (MiPSE).