Dissertation Proposal Announcement Ed.D. Program: Micaela Reininga “Teachers’ Perceptions of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports in Inclusive Elementary Classrooms: A Mixed-Methods Study”

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a widely used framework that promotes positive student behavior and creates supportive learning environments. Although research has demonstrated positive outcomes associated with school-wide PBIS, less attention has been given to how teachers perceive the feasibility and effectiveness of Tier 1 classroom-based PBIS in inclusive elementary classrooms. These settings present unique considerations, as teachers support students with diverse academic, behavioral, and disability-related needs. This proposed mixed-methods study examines how general and special education teachers implement Tier 1 classroom-based PBIS practices, how they perceive the feasibility and effectiveness of these practices, and the relationship between their perceptions. The study will take place in an urban New Jersey public school district and will begin with a survey of general and special education teachers working in inclusive elementary classrooms. Survey responses will be used to examine reported classroom practices, teachers’ perceptions, and patterns in their responses. Approximately six to eight teachers will then participate in individual…