LOS ANGELES — More Los Angeles Unified schools are being recognized for creating positive, supportive environments where students can learn and thrive, with 304 schools earning statewide recognition this year for their implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) , a nearly 20% increase from the previous year.
The California PBIS Coalition recognized 304 LAUSD schools for their work during the 2025–26 school year, up from 255 schools in 2024–25 and 162 schools in 2023–24.
The growth also reflects deeper implementation of PBIS across the District. Forty-three LAUSD schools earned the highest level of recognition, Platinum, while 73 earned Gold, 169 earned Silver and 19 earned Bronze. Platinum and Gold recognition include evidence of student progress in addition to strong implementation of PBIS practices.
“Creating a positive school environment begins with making sure every student feels safe, supported, and that they belong,” Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “Our schools are doing important work through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports to build those environments proactively by teaching expectations, recognizing positive behavior and giving students the support they need to thrive. I am proud of the schools recognized by the State for their commitment to this work, and grateful to the educators, students and families who are helping create school communities where every child can learn and grow.”
PBIS is an evidence-based framework that helps schools establish positive schoolwide expectations, teach and reinforce appropriate behaviors, use data to identify student needs and provide increasingly targeted supports. It is designed to prevent challenges before they escalate while creating a school culture where students feel a sense of belonging and responsibility.
The approach is implemented alongside other student-support strategies, including Restorative Practices and social-emotional learning.
Three of the District’s 43 Platinum-recognized schools Cheremoya Elementary School, Fleming Middle School and Canoga Park High School were selected by Los Angeles Unified to be highlighted at today’s Board of Education meeting. Principals and school team members from the three schools showcased their PBIS implementation and shared how these practices are helping create positive, supportive learning environments for students across the District.
The continued growth in PBIS recognition comes as Los Angeles Unified works to strengthen school environments and ensure students have the academic, social and emotional supports they need to succeed.
The California PBIS Coalition recognition process evaluates schools on their implementation of PBIS practices, use of data to guide decisions, systems of support and evidence of positive outcomes for students.
BOARD MEMBER QUOTES
Board President Scott M. Schmerelson - District 3
"Congratulations to our LAUSD schools that have successfully implemented the Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports system," said LAUSD Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. "304 LAUSD schools have been recognized and this goes beyond a simple policy change. It is a recognition of our schools that have successfully expanded their efforts make their schools a more welcoming and inclusive place. I also want to give a specific shoutout to my Board District 3 school, Canoga Park High School, for being recognized during today's board meeting. Once again, congratulations to all LAUSD schools."
Board Vice President Rocío Rivas - District 2
"I’m proud to celebrate the 304 LAUSD schools recognized by the California PBIS Coalition for creating positive, supportive school environments where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. "Thank you for building school communities where every student belongs."
Sherlett Hendy Newbill - Board District 1
“I am proud to celebrate the 43 Board District 1 schools recognized by the California PBIS Coalition for their commitment to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports during the 2025–26 school year. PBIS helps create school communities where students feel safe, supported, valued, and ready to learn. Congratulations to all of our LA Unified awardees for demonstrating what is possible when we prioritize positive relationships and the success of the whole child.”
Nick Melvoin - Board District 4
“I’m proud to celebrate the 304 LA Unified schools recognized for their work to create supportive learning environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally—including more than two dozen schools across Board District 4. Congratulations to our incredible educators and school communities for putting in the work every day to meet students’ needs and help every child succeed.”
Karla Griego - Board District 5
“Congratulations to the 304 schools honored with CA PBIS Recognition for the 2025–2026 academic year! As we move ahead, let’s remain committed to empowering every school to deliver comprehensive Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 support systems. When schools coordinate campus-wide initiatives that foster a positive learning environment, all staff contribute to creating a positive school climate where students feel truly valued, included, and supported."
Kelly Gonez - Board District 6
“Congratulations to our schools recognized for their work to fulfill the promise of Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports. The work to support the whole child is essential to the success of our students, and we are seeing the benefits at these schools and schools throughout our system.”
Tanya Ortiz Franklin - Board District 7
“Congratulations to our LAUSD schools recognized by the state of California for excellence in implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in their school communities, especially my alma mater, Fleming Middle School. I love to see my former school fostering a supportive, caring, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and a strong sense of belonging. Thank you to our teachers, staff, and families for all you do for our students!”