CYN Partner with Local Schools for PBS

PBS or Positive Behaviour Supports, as part of the Safe and Caring Schools policy within the English School System is being implemented within schools across the province. The CYN Youth Engagement Coordinator in the Port au Port District has partnered with two schools to assist with this implementation.  By working with youth groups to facilitate sessions and activities, share information, and develop strategies, the PBS roll-outs have been successful in ensuring that the student body knows and understands its responsibilities while being part of the school environment.

Community Youth Network support at Piccadilly Central High included a kick-off of the PBS through the facilitation of Respect Day.  CYN youth group developed questionnaires, games, presentations and tours reflecting on safe and appropriate behaviours within a variety of settings within and outside the school including on the bus.   The day included a presentation on the PBS system, bullying awareness, healthy living activities, and pledges by youth to do their part to make their school a safe, caring and welcoming environment.   The “Gotcha Pirate” concept was developed and introduced on Respect Day, and has been an on-going initiative at the school with a weekly draw and rewards to students “caught” being good.  Along with several other ongoing efforts, there are plans underway to develop a PBS video, and an end of the year celebration.

At Our Lady of the Cape, part of the PBS had each student and staff person develop their own positive behavior t-shirts.  It was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to express their own creativity and uniqueness, while sharing the same positive message and recognizing they all have a part to play in making their school a more positive environment for everyone.

CYN youth at Our Lady of the Cape have completed a banner entitled “Cobra’s Attack the Facts About Bullying – Let’s Make Bullying Hisssstory” and are developing a positive poster pledge campaign, and a “responsible behaviour” photo campaign.  Along with the visual promotions, CYN Youth are in the process of practicing classroom presentations and activities designed to highlight bullying and its effects on others.  The presentations and activities range from understanding feelings and emotions for the youngest students, to self-reflection and social responsibilities for older students, with all to be facilitated in fun and interactive sessions.

The Community Youth Network partnership with schools to assist with PBS has provided CYN youth an opportunity to take a first-hand look at the effects of negative behaviours on themselves and others, and has provided them with an opportunity to make their schools a positive place where individuals are accepted and respected.  The youth are also gaining valuable skills in event coordination, public speaking, planning, teamwork and presentations.   PBS – everybody wins!