Challenging behaviors can disrupt learning, affect classroom climate, and create barriers to student success. However, behavior is a form of communication, and understanding why behaviors occur is the first step toward developing effective, supportive interventions. Rather than relying solely on consequences, today's educators are increasingly using proactive, evidence-based approaches that teach replacement behaviors, strengthen relationships, and create environments where students can develop the skills necessary for long-term success.

This 5-hour professional development course provides educators with practical, evidence-based strategies for understanding and supporting students with challenging behaviors. Participants will explore the functions of behavior, learn proactive classroom management and prevention strategies, examine the components of effective Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), apply collaborative problem-solving techniques, and develop systems for collecting and analyzing behavior data. Through reflection, classroom applications, and resource development, educators will leave with practical strategies that reduce behavioral disruptions while fostering positive relationships, increased engagement, and improved student outcomes.

Throughout the course, participants will examine:

• Understanding behavior as a form of communication

• The four primary functions of student behavior

• Identifying the underlying causes of challenging behaviors

• Proactive classroom management and behavior prevention strategies

• Building positive teacher-student relationships that support behavior

• Creating structured classroom environments that reduce behavioral concerns

• Developing effective Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)

• Teaching replacement behaviors and positive behavior supports

• Using collaborative problem-solving to address recurring behavioral challenges

• Collecting and analyzing behavior data to guide intervention decisions

• Using Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) principles to inform classroom practices

• Developing practical classroom resources that promote positive behavior and student success

Participants will reflect on their current behavior management practices while developing prevention plans, behavior intervention strategies, collaborative problem-solving tools, and behavior data collection resources that can be immediately implemented in their classrooms.

Assignments are designed to be practical, classroom-focused, and directly connected to the daily experiences of educators working with diverse learners.

Special attention is given to helping educators shift from reactive discipline to proactive, relationship-centered practices that address the underlying causes of challenging behavior.

Participants will develop practical strategies that promote positive behavior, strengthen student engagement, improve classroom climate, and support the academic, social, and emotional success of all learners.