What is PBIS?

PBIS stands for "Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports" and is a program made up of positive prevention and intervention strategies that help make school a better place for everyone. Positive relationships between adults and students, and in peer-to-peer relationships, are key.

PBIS at WHS

The tagline "We Educate for Excellence" means something unique to each person. We encourage you to discover your excellence at Westlake High School, both in your interactions with others and by finding out more about yourself. What drives you? What are you passionate about? How can you work toward the best version of yourself and how can we help you get there?

Being respectful is more than simply being nice. Being respectful involves the active demonstration of respect for fellow students, staff members, and both school and personal property. Respect the rules of each classroom and the school and respect yourself by making good choices.

Being engaged starts with being in attendance - in school and in class every day, on time, and ready to learn. Then, it goes further. Being engaged means being an active participant in the life of the classroom/school: participating in class discussions, engaging with peers and your teachers, joining clubs and activities, seeking out service learning opportunities, and more.

Being compassionate is more than just being kind. Compassion implies empathy. High school is a great time to learn from other people who have a different lived life experience than your own. Compassion and empathy for others is just a good way to live - and a skill that will serve you well after high school as you pursue employment, enlist in the armed services, and/or seek higher education opportunities.

Being empowered is all about what we say (and mean!) in our vision and mission statements. We believe that students should leave Westlake High School empowered to direct their lives and contribute to society. Student empowerment is student voice and choice, from the classes you take to the leadership you exhibit in athletics, clubs, and organizations - or the club/organization you decide to start on your own!

We will publish more about PBIS at WHS throughout the year as we continue to implement the program. In the meantime, if you would like more information about PBIS as a concept, please visit PBIS.org.