'We Are Tigers': Lebanon schools roll out PBIS program; students demonstrate leadership

Deanna Nybarger, the district student services coordinator, told the school board the Lebanon Community School Corporation has launched a districtwide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program under the brand “We Are Tigers.” The year‑one plan focuses on establishing common language across all six district buildings, teaching six PBIS lessons (one per month from September through February), and expanding family and transportation engagement.

"PBIS is not just for young people, it's for adults," Nybarger said, noting staff worked over the summer to create lesson plans and communications. She said the district expects to expand to 12 lessons in year two to create a full scope and sequence.

Representatives from Harney Elementary described a Tiger Leaders program that nominates fifth graders who model the district's chosen traits — teamwork, integrity, growth mindset, empowered, responsible and supportive — and who help lead school‑wide convocations called Cub Connections. Students Sophia Bernal, Ryan Fouts and Aubrianna Venus addressed the board about how leadership activities supported their transition to middle school and improved their confidence and teamwork skills. Bernal said persistence helped her manage homework and "keep pushing and not give up."

Nybarger told the board the district collected more than 4,200 survey responses from students, staff and community members that informed the selection of the Tiger traits. Staff also described tangible incentives and recognition practices such as Tiger tickets, monthly celebrations and teacher‑created lessons as ways to reinforce behavior expectations across classrooms, buses and food‑service settings.

The presentation was informational; the board did not take formal action on the PBIS program at the meeting.