Schools are successful when they help children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. For this to happen it is imperative that we have a safe environment that is supportive and conducive for growth. by setting forth clear social and behavioral expectations and directly teaching students about those expectations, it is our goal is to create a positive atmosphere for optimal learning.

Camden County Schools has adopted a state-wide initiative entitled positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). This framework is an evidence-based, data-driven framework that has been proven to reduce disciplinary incidents, increase a school's sense of safety, improve school climate, and support improved academic outcomes for all students.

The PBIS system has 4 components:

• A matrix of behavioral expectations

• Lesson plans to teach students the behavioral expectations

• An acknowledgement/reinforcement system

• Behavioral infraction notice

At sugarmill, we have three school-wide behavioral expectations:

• Be respectful

• Be responsible

• Be safe