Public School Behavior Analyst Special Interest Group – 2025 SIG Update

By Laura Kenneally

B.F. Skinner believed that understanding human behavior scientifically is essential for creating systems and policies that lead to a better, more efficient, and compassionate world. Thus, the best place to apply the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) is public schools, which play a vital role in community development by equipping students with essential life skills. However, challenges such as declining national test scores and teachers struggling with behavior management due to insufficient training hinder educational progress. Behavior analysts are in a unique position to help improve both behavior management and instructional effectiveness.

The Public School Behavior Analyst SIG (PSBA) is addressing these challenges through research, teacher training, and policy influence. This spring, the group hosted CEU journal clubs, guest speakers, research meetings, and presented at the NJABA conference on public school behavior analysis standards. They also participated in ABAI’s leadership program at the annual conference.

Looking ahead, the PSBA SIG plans to conduct regional surveys on behavior analytic services in schools and continue to explore ways to enhance education through behavior analysis, particularly amid the ongoing national conversation on public education. Join PSBA for free monthly continuing education and networking opportunities to help improve public schools using applied behavior analysis as all of us have a stake in the future of public schools.