Ho, ho, ho! As we deck the halls and sip on eggnog, it’s time to unwrap a gift from the United States Department of Education (Department)—a new guidance document on Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs)!  

The Joys and Uses of an FBA 

Understanding the “why” (or function) behind student behaviors allows educators to create tailored interventions—like crafting the perfect toy for each child. After all, we don’t want to give a skateboard to a kid still mastering their balance! The Department wants you to start thinking about using FBAs to respond to any behaviors that interfere with learning (and not just safety-related behaviors) by any student (including those without disabilities).  

Your FBA and this “function-based” approach can help inform the development of a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) that implements strategies to reduce interfering behaviors while increasing desired behaviors. Effective use of an FBA may also avoid exclusionary discipline and reduce the need for more restrictive supports and environments. And guess what? The Department encourages Districts to spread the FBA joy to everyone—to students with and without disabilities.  

The Department Is Making a List [of FBA Essentials] and Checking It Twice! 

Just as Santa checks his list twice, educators conduct FBAs to understand the behaviors of their students. Think of an FBA as a magical sleigh ride through the land of student behavior, where we uncover the “naughty” and “nice” reasons behind their actions. Behind every FBA are these three essentials:  

1. Behavioral Observations: Picture this: Santa observing the elves at work. Similarly, educators watch students to see what behaviors are popping up like holiday lights. Is it a case of the fidgets during math or a sudden outburst during story time? 
2. Interviews: Just as Mrs. Claus knows Santa inside and out, educators chat with parents, teachers, and students to gather insights. It’s all about getting the scoop on what’s really going on! 
3. Review of Records: Santa keeps meticulous records of who’s been naughty or nice, and educators do the same. By reviewing past behavior reports and academic records, they gather vital information to inform their instructional strategies. 

 The FBA/BIP Process: A Step-by-Step Guide 

According to the Department’s new guidance document, the process for developing an FBA and BIP commonly follows these general steps:  

And who does all of this? The Department puts to rest rumors that the person must be a Board-Certified Behavior Analysis (BCBA):  

Data collection for an FBA should be conducted by professionals who have the necessary skills, training, and knowledge to identify, analyze, and address the interfering behaviors of students and collaborate and actively engage parents and students in the process. 

Examples of such professionals may include general and special educators, early childhood education providers, specialized instructional support personnel (e.g., school psychologists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, school counselors), behavioral specialists, administrators, and community-based professionals.  

Final Thoughts: Spread the Cheer 

This Christmas, let’s celebrate the magic of FBAs and their positive impact on student learning. FBAs are essential for understanding and supporting students with challenging behaviors. Just like the spirit of Christmas, every behavior has a story, and it’s our job—through the FBA—to uncover it. So, as you hang those stockings and trim the tree, remember that FBAs are here to help us create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students. Let’s embrace the holiday spirit of understanding the ABCs (antecedent—behavior—consequences) of student behaviors! And while we don’t have elves, the Department explains which sources of federal funds we can use to support the use of FBAs and BIPs.  

This school year, please register for Thompson & Horton’s Special Education Training Series focused on behavior and discipline. Each session is focused and brief (perfect for your busy holiday schedule), and will break down key concepts, provide insights on developing issues, and tackle complex legal and practical challenges, helping you navigate difficult issues like Informal Removals and Dangerous Behavior. 

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from your Special Education team at Thompson & Horton! 🎄✨