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Kiski Area SD intermediate school outlines Cavs Lead PBIS kickoff and yearlong rewards plan
Summary
Intermediate school leaders presented the Cavs Lead component of the district's MTSS/PBIS framework on Oct. 22, describing a kickoff event, student activities and an ongoing points-and-rewards system aimed at fostering leadership, empathy, accountability and determination.
Mike Cardamom Boden, identified in the meeting transcript as principal at the intermediate school, told the Kiski Area School District Board on Oct. 22 that the school’s Cavs Lead program is part of a district MTSS/PBIS framework aimed at improving student behavior and engagement. “Cavs lead states 4 behaviors that we wanna see in kids,” he said, naming “leadership, empathy, accountability, and determination.”
Assistant Principal John Cortazzo and a team of teachers described how they planned a districtwide kickoff that included a student-made promotional video, a poster contest, and three activity stations designed to build the four target behaviors. Cortazzo said the team reproduced elements they observed at a regional PBIS conference and used student interviews in the video to increase buy-in.
Presenters described the three stations used at the kickoff: a combination/locker task to practice transitions, a “find the cavalier” activity, and a distraction station to teach focus and perseverance. Students who won team competitions received small incentives such as Starbucks or Dairy Queen gift cards.
The team explained how the program moves beyond a single event. Teachers use a PBIS Rewards point system in which students earn one to three points for demonstrating the Cavs Lead behaviors; points can be redeemed at a teacher store or raffles and are tracked year-round. Presenters noted a parent-accessible comment section in the system and additional SEL check-ins for students needing daily support. “The ultimate goal of this is creating student and teacher buy in,” one presenter said.
Board members asked about sustaining interest and whether peers could nominate classmates; presenters said activities will rotate monthly, peers can assign or request points via a comment field, and parents can view entries using a code. The presenters also highlighted use of life-skills students to support event timing and engagement.
Superintendent Doctor Lohr thanked the intermediate school staff for the presentation and noted the program’s potential contribution to a positive school climate and, indirectly, to reducing placements in more restrictive programs.
The board did not take formal action on the presentation; presenters left materials and photos from the kickoff for board review.
