Every hallway and classroom at Thomas Lake Elementary is full of reminders that students are valued and capable. From the “You are loved” signs on the walls to the everyday kindness shared between classmates, the school is a place where belonging is part of daily life.

This commitment to a welcoming, supportive environment recently earned the school statewide recognition from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) for sustained excellence in implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

PBIS is an evidence-based framework that helps schools teach and encourage positive behaviors, foster a welcoming environment, and support the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of all students. Explicitly teaching positive behaviors creates a culture of high expectations within a safe and inclusive school. Schools that implement PBIS with fidelity see a noticeable improvement in student behavior, stronger engagement, and a culture of respect and responsibility. 

At Thomas Lake, PBIS comes to life through PRIDE core values: positivity, respect, integrity, determination, and excellence. Principal Dave Lostetter shared how his staff intentionally introduces and reinforces these values:

“At the beginning of the year, we visit every part of the school—the playground, cafeteria, hallways, classrooms—and talk with students about what PRIDE looks like in that space. It means being a positive person, showing respect, having integrity, working hard, and showing determination. We see every child for who they are now and who they can become. Once you’ve lived with PBIS and incorporated the language into your building, it becomes part of your values, part of your everyday life.”

Students notice the hard work. “I belong and I matter,” said Thomas Lake student Ellie. “Here at the school, there are signs hanging up all over the walls—‘You are loved’—and wow, I can tell everyone’s trying to make a nice community.”

This year, MDE recognized 93 schools and five districts statewide for sustained excellence in PBIS efforts. Education Commissioner Willie Jett honored all recipients at an August 14, 2025, recognition ceremony.

For the Thomas Lake community, this recognition is a celebration of what happens when a school community truly lives its values: students are inspired, kindness spreads, and the entire school shows its PRIDE.