DeKalb GA News

Two schools from the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) have achieved notable success at the Association for Positive Behavior Support (APBS) Film Festival. The event took place on March 14 during the annual APBS conference in St. Louis, Missouri. Cedar Grove Elementary School won in the “School Engagement – Elementary” category, while Tucker High School received an award in the “Instruction – High School” category. The winners were decided by votes from attendees of the festival.

The APBS Film Festival aims to highlight and celebrate the efforts of schools and organizations in promoting Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) through film. This year’s theme was “Bridging Relationships & Positivity.” Participants were required to create films that demonstrated core PBIS principles within two categories: instruction and school engagement.

Cedar Grove Elementary’s film featured its S.A.I.N.T.s Paradise initiative, which encourages students to be Supportive, Active, Independent, Noble, and Trustworthy (SAINT). Students who exemplify these qualities are rewarded with time in "Saints Paradise," a space filled with games and activities for relaxation and socializing.

Tucker High's film focused on behavior expectations within the school cafeteria. Using their mascot, Tiger, they conveyed expectations such as Timeliness, Integrity, Safety, Engagement, and Respect.

DCSD expressed congratulations to these talented young filmmakers for their remarkable achievements through its Division of Wrap Around Services and PBIS Team for Student Relations.

Both winning films can be viewed online via links provided by Cedar Grove Elementary School and Tucker High School.