I have always loved Smyrna and the surrounding area, so when I learned of the Media Specialist opening at Norton Park Elementary, I immediately applied. I was told that Norton Park was a P.B.I.S. school. P.B.I.S, what is that?! I'd never heard of a P.B.I.S school and I have been with Cobb County School District since 2003. So, before school began, I do what all good librarians do; I researched. I was in awe. Immediately I began to envision how this framework for preventing behavioral issues before problems arise would be the perfect school-wide program for my library media center. And, guess what; I was right!
P.B.I.S isn't just an acronym to sound cool; it is a three tier program that works when strictly adhered to. Students are not simply told how to behave, they learn proper behavior, manners, and how to respect one another and their surroundings. Basically, P.B.I.S is a way of life taught and demonstrated by every person in the school.
Due to the very noticeable lack of behavioral issues, I am able to multi-task like I never dreamed. I go from teaching entire classes to accommodating up to four small group lessons at a time. As I watch students push in their chairs without being told and hear, "Thank you Ms. Jiles", my emotions range from astonishment to joy. I must confess, there have been times I've had to turn my head due to the tears in my eyes.