Navigating Positive Behavior Support in Laredo ISD: A Parent’s Practical Guide

Welcome! If you're a parent navigating the world of special education in Laredo ISD, understanding how Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) works can feel like a big step — but it’s a powerful one. PBIS is a framework Laredo ISD uses to encourage positive behavior and create a supportive school environment where every child has a chance to succeed. In this guide, we’ll break down what PBIS means for your child and you, offering clear, practical tips on how to team up with teachers and staff, and ways you can reinforce these positive strategies at home. Our goal is to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a proactive approach that Laredo ISD uses to promote positive behavior and academic success for all students. At its heart, PBIS is about creating a school environment where positive behaviors are taught clearly, encouraged, and rewarded regularly. This helps reduce behavioral challenges and builds a culture where every child feels safe, understood, and ready to learn. According to Laredo ISD, PBIS is a key part of their discipline strategy to support student well-being and success (Laredo ISD Discipline).

In practice, PBIS means your child’s school will have clear behavior expectations that teachers and staff teach directly to students. When kids meet these expectations, staff recognize and reward those positive choices. This could be as simple as verbal praise, earning points or tokens (think of it like a classroom “currency” kids collect for good behavior), or special privileges like extra recess time. These positive rewards help kids understand what’s expected and feel motivated to keep making good choices.

For neurodivergent children, PBIS focuses on their strengths rather than just trying to fix challenging behaviors. Instead of punishment, it uses positive reinforcement to build confidence and motivation. This strengths-based approach respects each child’s unique way of learning and behaving, helping them succeed on their own terms. For example, teachers might use visual supports or behavior charts tailored to your child’s needs, making expectations clear and progress easy to track.

• Token Economies: Your child might earn tokens for following classroom rules, which they can later exchange for a small reward or privilege. It’s like earning points in a game!
• Specific Praise: Teachers might say, “I love how you stayed focused during reading time today!” This helps your child know exactly what they did well.
• Visual Supports: Some classrooms use charts or pictures that show expected behaviors and track progress, which can be especially helpful for kids who learn best with visual cues.

You play a huge role in reinforcing these positive behaviors. Here are some simple steps to get started:

1. Learn the School’s Expectations: Ask your child’s teacher what behaviors are being taught and rewarded.
2. Use Similar Rewards at Home: If your child earns tokens at school, try a small reward system at home too, like stickers or extra playtime.
3. Give Specific Praise: Just like teachers, tell your child exactly what they did well to help them understand and repeat those behaviors.

Laredo ISD’s Special Education Department offers in-home training to help you learn behavior management strategies tailored to your child. This hands-on support fits into your daily routine and builds your confidence as a parent. To get started:

• Contact the Special Education Department through your child’s school or the Laredo ISD Special Education page.
• Ask about in-home training programs and what to expect.
• Use the strategies you learn consistently at home to match what your child is experiencing at school.

This consistency helps reduce your child’s anxiety and supports their growth both academically and socially.

Laredo ISD’s Parent & Family Engagement Department offers workshops, support groups, and personalized guidance to help you advocate for your child. Staying connected here can make a big difference in feeling supported and informed. Reach out through the Parent & Family Engagement website or your child’s school to learn more.

Section 504 is a federal program that ensures students with disabilities get the support they need in school. This might include things like extra time on tests, a quiet place to work, or seating near the teacher. Here’s how to request a 504 plan:

1. Talk to Your Child’s School: Start by asking about the 504 evaluation process.
2. Request an Evaluation: This is a formal step where the school looks at your child’s needs.
3. Attend the 504 Meeting: Work with the school team to create a plan that fits your child.
4. Monitor and Communicate: Keep in touch with teachers to see how the plan is working and ask for updates as needed.

Having a 504 plan can make a big difference in your child’s school experience by leveling the playing field.

Laredo ISD partners with community organizations to offer mental health services like counseling and behavioral support. These services complement PBIS by addressing emotional and social needs. To explore these options:

• Ask your child’s school counselor about available mental health resources.
• Reach out to local community providers connected with Laredo ISD.
• Join support groups to connect with other parents.

• Stay Informed: Regularly check in with your child’s teachers, counselors, and 504 coordinators.
• Engage Community Resources: Don’t hesitate to explore outside support like therapy or parent groups.
• Share Updates: Keep everyone in the loop about your child’s progress and any changes.
• Advocate Confidently: If something isn’t working, ask for a review or adjustment of your child’s supports.

Managing all this information and coordinating between school, home, and community can feel overwhelming. That’s where NeuroMule steps in. It helps you organize notes, track progress, and gather insights in one place, making your advocacy smoother and less stressful.

Remember, you’re doing an incredible job navigating this journey. With the right support and tools, every step forward becomes a little easier. Give NeuroMule a try and see how it can help you focus on what matters most: your child’s success and well-being.