Explicit teaching & positive reinforcement of expectations

One school's example

The expectations of Tasmania's Evandale Primary School are based on PURRing!!  Students are explicitly taught to P.U.R.R.

• Perseverance: 
• By always trying our best and taking pride in our achievement.  
• Learn all we can by listening, participating and completing work on time
• Understanding: 
• For each other, being courteous, cooperative and friendly
• Respect: 
• Our school - by keeping classrooms and grounds clean, tidy and free of litter, vandalism, graffiti.  
• Respect other people - their feelings, personal space and property
• Responsibility: 
• Care for our equipment.  
• Follow established classroom rules and routines.  
•  Work, move and play safely

Students receive recognition of positive behaviour with PURR points:

• 20 = icy pole; 
• 40 = classroom book; 
• 60 = small prize; 
• 80 = passport to help out in another class; 
• 100 = recognition morning tea.

This positive reinforcement scheme is a nice example of using "free and frequent" reinforcement to build a continuum of recognition.

Thanks to Deb Rigby at Evandale for sharing her school's great practice!