Effective Behavior and Instructional Support: A District Model for Early Identification and Prevention of Reading and Behavior Problems

The purpose of this article is to describe the development and 10-year implementation of the effective behavior and instructional support model in a midsized northwestern Oregon school district. The district experienced a sustained reduction in students' discipline referral rates, an increase in the percentage of students on track for early reading benchmarks, and an improvement in special education evaluation of learning disabilities. These important outcomes were associated with the systematic integration of effective practices, including capacity building professional development, schoolwide positive behavior support, early literacy, early intervention, and special education evaluation and identification using student responsiveness to intervention. At school and district levels, a continuum of behavior and academic supports was established for all students, and specialized interventions were implemented for students struggling with behavior and/or academic challenges.