Reflections from CA PBIS 2025: Deepening the work into daily practice

As a former educator, the 2025 CA PBIS Conference was a powerful reminder of the why behind this work, and how essential it is for schools to implement tiered systems of proactive support for students. Here are a few takeaways from the sessions I attended:

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A resonant theme in Dr. Ruthie Payno‑Simmons’ keynote was the difference between belonging and rightful belonging. It’s not enough for students to feel welcome; they must know they belong because the system was designed with them in mind. Rightful belonging challenges us to move beyond inclusion and into transformation, where equity is not an add-on, but the foundation.

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We were also reminded that change begins with the adults. Shifting mindsets means prioritizing adult self-care and recognizing the reality of compassion fatigue. When we take care of ourselves, we show up better for our students — not out of obligation, but from a place of empathy and purpose.

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Another key moment from one of my sessions included the reminder that frameworks work best when they are integrated, not siloed. PBIS, MTSS, SEL,  these are not separate initiatives, but interconnected systems that support a whole-child, whole-school approach, and schools can be more successful with this approach.

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Finally, throughout the event, attendees were challenged to deepen the commitment to learning about students — their identities, communities, strengths, and needs. And at the core of that integration is intentional relationships — cultivating meaningful, authentic connections with students that anchor the work in humanity.

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The conversations at CA PBIS 2025 were inspiring—and now it's time to put them into action. Sown To Grow partners with districts across the state to implement this work, and we’d love to learn more about the initiatives in your own school. Book a time with our team!