Classroom Behavior Support Project
The Classroom Behavior Support (CBS) Project represents a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the impact of two teacher consultation packages (standard and enhanced) on growth in teacher classroom management practices and student outcomes. The project was conducted across diverse elementary school settings (urban, rural, suburban) between 2020 and 2024.
Teachers in each consultation condition received up to 10 consultation sessions focused on supporting their use of effective Tier 1/universal classroom management practices and effective Tier 2/targeted interventions (i.e., a daily report card) with students with ADHD. Classrooms were observed weekly throughout the duration of the project. All teachers had access to the to facilitate implementation.
- In the Standard Consultation condition: consultants used a 5-step behavioral problem-solving approach, with observation and brief, data-driven performance feedback.
- In the Enhanced Multi-component condition, consultants used a problem-solving approach and integrated motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), and specific components designed to help teachers overcome common barriers to implementation (i.e., limitations in knowledge, skills, beliefs, and stress). Sessions were collaborative and personalized, with SMART goal setting and reflective tools.
Findings from the main study aims are forthcoming.
The project was funded by the Institute of Education Science. We are grateful for the principals, teachers, families, and students who participated in the project.
Educators can find resources related to this project on our resources page.
How Does the Classroom Behavior Support Project Work?
The project occurs in two phases.
Phase 1: Collaborative Self-Assessment
From January – May, teachers participate in a collaborative self-assessment. This phase involves:
- Participation in a brief interview with the CIRS staff, two classroom observations and complete rating scales
- An individual session to reflect on your own strengths and areas for professional growth
The outcomes are confidential. Teachers are paid for completing ratings scales ($75) and are eligible to receive CEUs.
Phase 2: Positive Behavior Support Strategies
During the following academic year, a subset of teachers who completed the spring assessment will be invited to participate in a randomized trial. Within the randomized trial, teachers receive coaching in Tier 1 and Tier 2 positive behavior support strategies. The trial assesses the two coaching packages on teacher practices and student outcomes.
Through this trial, teachers will:
- Develop individual professional goals
- Participated in roughly six individual coaching sessions in the fall and roughly two sessions in the spring
- Complete rating scales during the fall, winter and spring (with compensation)
- Allow weekly observations in the classroom
Teacher outcomes are confidential, and teachers receive $350 in compensation.
Why Participate?
- Approximately 20–30% of students experienced social, emotional and behavioral challenges related to the pandemic
- Meeting the needs of all students is critical to student and teacher success
- Challenging behavior is stressful for teachers, and many teachers request support on Tier 1 and Tier 2 strategies
- Teachers benefit more from individualized coaching support than workshop-style professional development
We provide individualized coaching and professional development to teachers for free. This coaching aligns with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and other similar programs (e.g., Restorative Practices, Responsive Classroom and Leader in Me). Our team will work with administrators to build capacity in your building (e.g., identify one representative per building to learn and sustain the coaching model).
Benefits for Teachers and Students
The Classroom Behavior Support Project benefits teachers and students.
Benefits for Teachers
- Individualized support
- Improved student-teacher relationships
- Reduced daily stress
- Positive home-school communication
Benefits for Students
- Increased time on task and engaged learning
- Increased academic and behavioral functioning
- Improved student-teacher relationships
- Enhanced self-esteem