What’s the Function: Using FBAs to guide Behavior Supports

In this episode, Heather is joined by Lathyrelle, a school psychologist who brings years of experience helping teams understand what behavior plans should actually look like in practice. Together, they walk through what makes a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) meaningful—not just checking boxes, but truly understanding the student behind the behavior.Lathyrelle breaks down how a comprehensive FBA pulls in the student’s full story: academic history, home life, medical background, relationships, and real-time observations. She explains why the “why” behind behavior matters just as much as the behavior itself, and how digging into context can prevent teams from making the wrong call based on limited data. They talk about how to build a behavior intervention plan (BIP) that actually works—one that teaches skills, adjusts environments, and gets all adults on the same page.This conversation is a reminder that FBAs aren’t just forms—they’re tools to help us understand and support students more deeply. When we bring in the full context, include the student in the process, and stay open to ongoing change, we set the stage for lasting growth.Explore More with Us inside The TLC Network!Learn more in this episode’s show notes and join a vibrant community of behavior-focused school professionals committed to their professional growth.Join Our NewsletterStay updated with our latest episodes and receive exclusive content every week. Sign up now!Follow Us on Social MediaConnect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for weekly updates and behind-the-scenes content. Tag us @thresholdlearningtlc to engage with us across all platforms!Subscribe to Our PodcastEnjoyed today’s episode? Share it with friends and never miss an episode on your favorite platform: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!Support Our MissionLove what you hear? Support our efforts to empower local schools to support complex youth. Visit TLC Nonprofit to learn more.Send Us Your FeedbackHave questions or ideas for future episodes? Reach out to us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you!