At the recent Behavior Supports in Schools Conference, the True Measure Collaborative (TMC) team had the opportunity to lead a session on a topic at the heart of our mission: how to build inclusive education systems through collaborative partnerships, grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Our session focused on applying ABA tools not just to student behavior, but to educator practice, relationship-building, and systems-level change. This approach reflects what we do every day: coaching and collaborating with school teams to promote meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities and multilingual learners.
Building Positive, Trust-Based Partnerships
One of the session’s central themes was the importance of cultivating strong partnerships between behavior analysts, teachers, paraeducators, and school leaders. We modeled and discussed ways to build trust, ensure shared ownership, and create conditions where all adults in a school feel equipped to support every learner.
Participants explored how small, intentional actions like consistent greeting routines, clear reinforcement systems, or a simple visual prompt can help educators build positive momentum with students and colleagues alike. These strategies aren’t about overhauling a classroom, instead, they’re about making targeted shifts that spark growth.
PRACTICAL TOOLS GROUNDED IN ABA
Throughout the session, we emphasized a coaching framework that mirrors our own practice at TMC: setting goals collaboratively, collecting and reviewing data, modeling in real-time, and reinforcing new strategies that work.
Participants didn’t just hear about these tools, they experienced them. Through hands-on activities and guided peer discussions, educators practiced applying ABA-informed techniques to real-world challenges, from student engagement to behavior management in common areas like lunchrooms and playgrounds.
By keeping goals high and support tailored, we help school teams foster student independence and ensure that no learner is underestimated.
From What to How: Supporting Implementation
At TMC, we know that knowing what to do isn’t enough. Educators also need support with how to do it in their context, with their students. During the session, we highlighted the power of modeling, gradual release, and coaching cycles that focus on one small change at a time.
We also addressed the importance of positive behavior supports, from reinforcement systems that are consistent across classrooms and common areas, to explicit communication of expectations for students and staff.
Our team works closely with schools to translate behavior data into practical strategies and to deliver feedback in ways that resonate with each educator’s communication style. Some educators prefer real-time coaching; others need written reflections. We meet teams where they are.
Building a Culture of Appreciation
Another key takeaway was the role of reinforcement and motivation – not just for students, but for adults. Participants shared ways they celebrate colleagues and build professional momentum, from personalized praise to schoolwide shout-outs to goofy stuffed animal awards that bring levity to hard work.
This culture of appreciation is a cornerstone of TMC’s coaching approach: we help educators build systems that recognize progress, encourage consistency, and sustain change.
Partnering with TMC
Whether we’re supporting a single teacher or working with a school team, our approach is grounded in trust, clarity, and action. We don’t just consult, we co-create inclusive systems that work.
If your school or district is seeking concrete strategies for student engagement, improved collaboration between educators and support staff, or more consistent positive behavior systems, we’d love to connect. Our team is here to listen, partner, and grow with you!