Ten PYLUSD Schools Recognized for Excellence in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports

Ten schools within the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) have received formal recognition from California PBIS for exemplary implementation of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. Tynes Elementary School, Tuffree Middle School, and Woodsboro Elementary School were awarded Gold Recognition, while Brookhaven Elementary School, Golden Elementary School, Morse Elementary School, Sierra Vista Elementary School, Valadez Middle School Academy, and Van Buren Elementary School earned Silver Recognition. Topaz Elementary School achieved Bronze Recognition for its commitment to PBIS principles.

California PBIS administers a statewide recognition system honoring schools that demonstrate fidelity to the national PBIS framework. Schools may be recognized at the Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze levels, depending on their degree of implementation. Following the 2024–2025 academic year, only 766 schools statewide achieved Gold Recognition, 862 achieved Silver, and 154 achieved Bronze.

According to the California Department of Education, PBIS is a proactive, data-driven approach that emphasizes social-emotional learning, enhances student engagement, and mitigates problematic behaviors. By organizing and adopting evidence-based behavioral interventions, schools improve outcomes for all students.

Tynes Elementary has embedded PBIS into its institutional culture, prioritizing tiered systems of support to meet students’ individual needs. The school’s mission “preparing all students to succeed today, tomorrow, and always” guides these efforts. Principal Dr. Christa Borgese remarked, “Earning our first-ever PBIS award is a true reflection of the dedication of our staff, students, and families. At Tynes, PBIS is not just a program—it’s part of our culture. We are proud to create a school where every student is supported and encouraged to succeed both now and in the future.”

Tuffree Middle School integrates multi-tiered interventions into its PBIS program, positioning them as foundational to behavior management efforts. Principal Sarah Barton stated, “At Tuffree, PBIS multi-tiered interventions are the foundation of our behavior management efforts, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to be successful. Our PBIS program creates a positive and supportive school culture by teaching, modeling, and celebrating behaviors that help students thrive academically and socially. Receiving the PBIS Gold recognition is a testament to our staff and students’ commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where every student feels valued and empowered.”

Woodsboro Elementary completed a rigorous application process, providing extensive data to demonstrate its robust schoolwide behavioral systems. Principal Rachael Collins reflected, “At Woodsboro, we make positive behavior a priority by rewarding students, leveraging the power of our student leadership programs, and ensuring we have numerous supports and interventions in place when additional help is needed. Our students continue to shine by living the Woodsboro Way: Bee Ready, Bee Responsible, Bee Respectful.”

Brookhaven Elementary emphasizes the “Bear Necessities” Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful—across all areas of campus, including lunch tables, gardens, restrooms, and walkways. Teachers reinforce these expectations through classroom instruction and monthly character trait activities. Principal Laura Fisher emphasized, “We don’t just do PBIS for the award or recognition. Being recognized with the PBIS Silver Award affirms that we are doing what is right for our students providing the support, consistency, and care they need to thrive academically and socially.”

Golden Elementary centers its PBIS program on the principles of being Respectful, Responsible, and Safe, combining positive reinforcement with data-driven decision-making. Principal Kristin McDonald commented, “This recognition is a true reflection of the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and families in building a culture where being Respectful, Responsible, and Safe is at the heart of everything we do. A lot of effort went into this accomplishment—from teaching expectations, celebrating positives, and partnering with families, to creating meaningful PBIS experiences for our students. I am incredibly proud of our Golden community for shining so brightly and showing what it means to stay Golden every day.”

At Morse Elementary PBIS program is the heartbeat of thecampus culture. PBIS framework emphasizes clear expectations “Morse Wildcats are Responsible, Respectful, Prepared, and Kind” and intentional teaching, modeling, and celebration of positive behavior. Principal Kelly Farrell observed, “Earning PBIS Silver is a testament to our Morse community. I’m incredibly proud of our students and staff, and grateful for our families. This recognition celebrates the joyful, safe, and supportive school community we’re building together.”

Sierra Vista Elementary uses data-driven PBIS practices to strengthen positive behavior expectations and foster a supportive culture. Principal Debbie Kojima stated, “This award reflects the heart of Sierra Vista—our commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. I am so proud of our staff, students, and families for the way they have embraced PBIS and made it part of who we are as a school. Sierra Vista Eagles soaring to success. Every student, every day!”

At Valadez Middle School the PBIS program rewards students for modeling core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Kindness, while also offering tools and support for students needing additional guidance. Principal Will Truong shared, “Being recognized as a Silver PBIS School is a celebration of our staff’s dedication to caring for Every Student, Every Day, and their commitment to helping students reach their personal and academic goals. This honor would not have been possible without the leadership of our PBIS Coordinators, Mrs. April Treece and Mrs. Rosa Micheli, along with our entire PBIS team, who continue to find creative and meaningful ways to celebrate our Soaring Eagles.”

Van Buren Elementary implements a school-wide PBIS plan to promote a safe, respectful, and positive learning environment. The program is centered around the acronym STARS: Safe, There & Ready, Act Responsibly, Respect, and Show Compassion. These expectations are taught and reinforced throughout the school day, with staff using teachable moments to guide students in making positive choices, solving problems, and preparing for success. To encourage and reward positive behavior, students can earn STARS Cards and STARS Bucks, which may be exchanged for prizes at the student store. PBIS at Van Buren is not a one-time program but an ongoing process that evolves each year as staff reflect and refine practices. Together with families, the school is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where all students can thrive. Principal David Cammarato shared “This recognition is truly a celebration of our Van Buren community. Receiving this recognition for our PBIS program is an honor that reflects our school’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment. I am grateful to our dedicated staff, hardworking students, and supportive families for making this achievement possible.”

Topaz Elementary launched several PBIS initiatives during the 2024–2025 school year, including R.O.A.R.S. tickets, Tiger of the Week, Golden Ticket, Check-In/Check-Out, and attendance recognitions. These efforts were guided by the school’s motto, “Every Student, Every Day: Tigers Committed to Excellence,” and its R.O.A.R.S. values—Respectful, On-Task, Achieving, Responsible, and Safe. Principal Bilma Bermudez reflected, “I have seen the impact firsthand. When students, staff, and families work together toward common expectations, we create a culture where every child feels supported, valued, and successful.”

The distinguished schools will be recognized at the Tenth Annual California PBIS Conference in Sacramento on October 8-10, 2025. Click here to see the full list of 2024-2025 California PBIS Recognized Schools.

Congratulations to all the schools and their dedicated teams! PYLUSD is proud of your achievements and commitment to creating positive, supportive learning environments for our students.