Sedalia Middle School Earns PBS Gold status

Sedalia Middle School was recently recognized with Gold-level status for Schoolwide Positive Behavior Support.
Sedalia 200 says that SMS is one of 149 Missouri public and charter schools recognized over the summer for exemplary implementation of SW-PBS, “an evidence based, proactive approach to teaching and reinforcing behavioral expectations in order to improve student behavior, maximize instructional time, and increase student engagement,” according to a news release from the state PBS program.

Some of the techniques and programs SMS uses to boost student attendance and behavior are rewards such as Pride Cards and Tiger Tokens, which Sedalia 200 can be redeemed for privileges and prizes; quarterly assemblies for students who meet academic, attendance and behavior goals; family outreach nights to share expectations with parents; and Club 92, which is described as an "attendance incentive
program for students whose attendance falls below 87 percent."

Sara Pannier served as SMS principal through the school’s implementation of SW-PBS, saying, “We became invested in PBS because we wanted to change the culture by creating a positive environment with consistent expectations. SW-PBS provided us with a systematic approach and ongoing training. As a result, our discipline decreased and our daily average attendance increased, which made a positive impact on student learning.”

Pannier, who is now principal at Horace Mann Elementary, is pleased that the SMS staff is being recognized for its efforts.

“We were extremely excited to achieve the highest level,” she said. “I was particularly excited for the PBS Team and the coaches - they are the ones who volunteered their time and energy over the past eight years. The fruits of our labor are very sweet and rewarding.”

It was noted tthe SMS PBS Team includes Jeremy Fry, Shelley Lutjen, Shani Cooper-Gwaltney and Taylor Thomas.

PIC 1: from left: Shani Cooper-Gwaltney, Taylor Thomas, Sara Pannier, Shelley Lutjen and Jeremy Fry.