The Changing Role of the District PBIS Coordinator Throughout the Stages of Implementation

Abstract

Various district-level factors contribute to the successful implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in schools, a widely implemented evidence-based framework supporting students’ social, emotional, and behavioral development. Prior research has identified the district PBIS coordinator as a critical factor supporting school-level PBIS implementation. However, further research is needed to clarify the functions of the district PBIS coordinator role throughout the implementation process. This pilot study developed and validated a survey instrument to clarify (a) the common functions of the district PBIS coordinator role and (b) how the common functions of district PBIS coordinators changed across the distinct implementation stages. The Kruskal-Wallis H-test was used to determine whether significant differences existed in the amount of time district PBIS coordinators spent on functions of their role by implementation stage. Results from the pilot administration conducted in the U.S. state of Michigan indicated that district PBIS coordinators initially focused time on leadership and organization functions while competency functions developed as implementation matured. The survey findings offer preliminary insights into the district PBIS coordinator role, which may help inform professional development planning at the local and state levels, technical assistance offerings, and personnel decision-making. This study also serves as a blueprint for future research.