Lucketts Elementary School has expanded its Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) House System this year as part of efforts to foster a stronger sense of belonging among students and staff. The system divides the school community into six houses, each with its own identity, and encourages regular meetings, shared goals, and friendly competitions. This approach is designed to promote support across grade levels and instill pride in collective achievements.
According to the Center on PBIS, schools that implement PBIS consistently can see improved student behavior, better academic results, and reduced discipline disparities.
A new symbolic element was introduced this year: a community tree displayed in the cafeteria. At the first house meeting, every student and staff member added a personalized leaf with their name to the tree. The display now serves as a daily reminder of unity under the motto “Six Houses, One Family.”
Principal Laura Ganley explained the significance of this addition. “This tree is more than decoration. It is a daily reminder that every child and adult at Lucketts Elementary belongs here,” Ganley said. “Whether you are in Red Maple, Green Pine, Yellow Birch, Orange Dogwood, Purple Oak or Blue Spruce, you are part of something bigger. Our goal is for students to know they are seen, supported and celebrated every day and for families to feel that same sense of connection.”
Research suggests that consistent implementation of PBIS across classrooms helps improve school climate and enhances students’ feelings of safety and belonging—outcomes that Lucketts Elementary aims to achieve.
