October 4, 2023

The Clarke County School District is pleased to announce that all 21 of its schools (14 elementary schools, four middle schools, and three high schools) have been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) for supporting positive school climate through the implementation of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. In addition, Winterville Elementary School has been announced as a Distinguished PBIS School for the 2022-23 school year, the highest level of achievement in the state’s recognition system. 

PBIS is an evidence-based, data-driven framework proven to reduce the number of disciplinary incidents and improve school climates as well as overall academic outcomes among students. GaDOE utilizes a best-practices model for PBIS implementation, and all CCSD schools are in various stages of implementation. The purpose of the state’s recognition system is to identify schools that exemplify best practices in the implementation of PBIS. More information can be found here. 

Winterville Elementary School has completed its Tier II training and has met all six of the state’s outcome data measures to earn recognition as a Distinguished PBIS School.

“It is an honor to be recognized as a Distinguished PBIS School for the 2022-23 school year,” said Dr. Carletha Pearson, principal of Winterville Elementary. “Our staff have done an exceptional job with continuing the work to build and sustain a positive learning environment and school culture for our scholars, families, community members, and themselves. I am blessed to have such a dynamic group of teachers, paraprofessionals, front office staff, custodial staff, cafeteria staff, and administrative team who all do their part to ensure that we implement PBIS consistently and with fidelity. We are truly ‘Better Together!’”

In addition, eight CCSD schools — Barnett Shoals Elementary, Barrow Elementary, Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle, Gaines Elementary, Hilsman Middle, Howard B. Stroud Elementary, Timothy Road Elementary, and Whitehead Road Elementary — have been recognized as PBIS Operational Schools, the highest possible rating for schools that have not completed Tier II training. 

Bettye Henderson Holston Elementary (formerly Alps Road Elementary), Cleveland Road Elementary, W.R. Coile Middle, Fowler Drive Elementary, Johnnie Lay Burks Elementary (formerly Chase Street Elementary), Oglethorpe Avenue Elementary, and Whit Davis Elementary have been named PBIS Emerging Schools, while Cedar Shoals High, Clarke Central High, Clarke Middle, Classic City High, and Judia Jackson Harris Elementary have been recognized as PBIS Installing Schools. 

“I am thrilled that every school within the Clarke County School District has earned the recognition of being Georgia PBIS school,” said Dr. Jennifer Scott, CCSD’s Deputy Superintendent of Academics and Student Support. “This remarkable achievement reflects the commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students, teachers, and staff. We are immensely proud of the dedication and hard work of our entire school community in promoting positive behavior and ensuring the success of our students.”