Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) can be a transformative tool to support students with disabilities as they prepare for life after high school. This continuum of interventions and supports can be especially beneficial for promoting soft skill development in adult environments, like Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), work trials, and employment settings, where independence, emotional regulation, and social success are essential.
To ensure PBIS is implemented effectively during this critical transition period, educators can use the following strategies:
- Align Behavioral Expectations with Adult Outcomes
Frame school-wide expectations (e.g., respect, responsibility, safety) in the context of adult environments like workplaces, college campuses, and community settings. Teach behaviors that directly support independence, self-determination, and employability. - Individualize Supports Based on Transition Goals
Use students’ IEP transition plans to guide behavioral instruction and reinforcement. For example, a student aiming for competitive employment may benefit from targeted support in punctuality, communication, and task persistence. - Embed PBIS into Real-World Experiences
Reinforce positive behaviors during community-based instruction, internships, and job shadowing. This helps students generalize skills across settings and see the relevance of school-based expectations. - Use Meaningful Reinforcers
Choose reinforcers that reflect adult life, such as increased autonomy, mentorship, or leadership opportunities, rather than traditional school-based rewards. - Collaborate Across Systems
Partner with families, adult service providers, and community organizations to ensure consistency in behavioral expectations and supports across environments. - Monitor Progress and Adjust Supports
Use data to track behavioral growth and make timely adjustments. Celebrate progress toward adult readiness, not just compliance.
By integrating these strategies, PBIS becomes a bridge to adulthood that empowers students with disabilities to thrive beyond high school.
Bonus Tips:
Ready to sharpen your skills in preparing students for a transition to the workplace? Enroll in Transition Educators Facilitating Employment, a comprehensive, 10-week online training beginning January 5, 2026.
This essential course is designed for educators, specialists, Pre-ETS providers, transition coordinators, and all related professionals ready to elevate their practice.
You will gain:
- A strong foundation in adult vocational transition.
- Proven techniques for effective job placement.
- Effective strategies necessary for achieving successful, long-term employment outcomes.
Cost: $250
Transform your approach to transition education, enroll today!