Press Releases

This page houses official announcements from Banning Unified School District. Managed by the Communication Department, it offers access to both recent and past press releases, providing a comprehensive record of District initiatives, achievements, events, and updates. The archive ensures transparency and keeps the community, media, and stakeholders informed about important developments over time.

For media inquiries, please contact our department at (951) 922-0200, ext. 104012 or email communications@banning.k12.ca.us.

2024-2025

Banning USD Earns California PBIS Recognition with Three Schools Honored

BANNING, CA — Banning Unified School District is proud to announce that three of its schools have received prestigious California Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) recognition for their exemplary implementation of the PBIS framework. This recognition highlights the District's dedication to fostering positive, supportive, and inclusive learning environments for all students.

New Horizon High School has earned the Platinum Implementation Award, the highest level of distinction, along with that Hemmerling Elementary School and Nicolet Middle School have each received Gold Implementation Awards. These honors reflect the schools' commitment to using data-driven approaches to improve student behavior, engagement, and overall school climate.

"We are incredibly proud of our schools for this achievement," said Superintendent Terrence Davis. "Our students and staff have worked hard to create learning environments that are not only safe but also supportive and nurturing. This recognition reflects our collective commitment to making Banning USD a place where every student can thrive."

Region 10, which encompasses Inyo, Mono, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, received over 500 applications for PBIS recognition this year. Banning USD's outstanding achievement of three schools being honored speaks to the District's unwavering dedication to student success.

Banning USD is proud to be part of California's efforts to enhance school climates and support student achievement through PBIS. The District remains committed to building strong behavioral support systems that foster positive, inclusive, and equitable learning environments for all students.

Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, Dr. Tonia Causey-Bush, also commended the schools for their dedication. "The recognition of New Horizon, Hemmerling, and Nicolet is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our staff, students, and community. Implementing PBIS with fidelity ensures that we are meeting the diverse needs of our students and helping them develop the skills needed for lifelong success."

California PBIS is a collaborative organization that utilizes evidence-based, culturally relevant practices to support all community partners in implementing PBIS as a multi-tiered system. It follows the National PBIS Blueprints for professional development, implementation, and evaluation. Schools are recognized at different levels—Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze—based on the depth and fidelity of their PBIS implementation, as well as their success in using data to improve student behavior and engagement.

PBIS operates through a three-tiered system that provides students with varying levels of behavioral support. Tier 1 focuses on teaching expected behaviors to all students, creating positive and safe learning environments. For students needing additional support, Tiers 2 and 3 offer personalized interventions and resources. This comprehensive approach emphasizes teaching appropriate behaviors, positive reinforcement, and social-emotional well-being over punitive measures, ensuring that schools proactively address behavior before it escalates.