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Behavior Support Pathways: Choosing the Right Level of Behavior Support

A practical guide to help school teams determine the appropriate level of behavior assessment and support, from classroom and small-group interventions to individualized behavior plans and comprehensive FBAs.

The Behavior Support Pathways guide helps school teams determine the appropriate level of behavior assessment and intervention based on student needs.

Not every behavior concern requires a comprehensive Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) or individualized Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP). This resource provides a tiered, function-based framework to help teams make informed decisions and provide timely support.

When to Use This Resource

Use this guide when:

  • Determining next steps for a student experiencing behavioral challenges.
  • Deciding whether classroom, small-group, or individualized supports are appropriate.
  • Considering whether a comprehensive FBA is needed.
  • Reviewing behavior referral processes or collaborating during MTSS and student support meetings.
What's Included?

The guide outlines four levels of behavior support, with corresponding tools available in Behavior Advantage:

  1. Classroom Supports: Classroom Support Plan (CSP)
  2. Small-Group Supports: Tracker/Check-In/Check-Out (CICO)
  3. Focused Student Supports: Simple BIP
  4. Comprehensive Student Supports: FBA/BIP

When individualized support is needed, two questions help determine the appropriate pathway:

  1. Is a comprehensive FBA required? Review applicable federal, state, and district procedures.
  2. How well does the team understand the behavior? Consider existing information about behavioral patterns, likely function, student skills, and support needs.

Based on these considerations, teams can select one of three pathways:

  • Path A: Document & Plan – Develop a function-based plan using existing information, such as through the Simple BIP tool.
  • Path B: Plan & Gather – Begin an initial function-based plan, such as a Simple BIP, while gathering targeted information.
  • Path C: Comprehensive FBA – Conduct a comprehensive assessment when required or when more intensive assessment is warranted.

Regardless of the pathway, the priorities remain the same: Have a Plan, Implement the Plan, and Monitor Progress.

Download: Behavior Support Pathways (PDF)

Related Resource: When a comprehensive FBA is needed, use The FBA Step-by-Step Guide for guidance on conducting and documenting the assessment.