Community Based Instruction (CBI)

Community Based Instruction (CBI) is performance based instruction using an Individual Education Plan (IEP) with goals and objectives. It is part of the curriculum and includes deliberate and frequent assessments. CBI is designed for middle and high school students with moderate to severe disabilities needing intensive instruction in functional and daily living skills and for students that exhibit challenging behaviors in community settings. CBI supports transition planning and involves a series of small group activities where students with disabilities apply independent living skills from the classroom, to the school environment, and later into the community.

The program goals of Community Based Instruction are to lead students toward independence and enable students to:

• Apply educational goals and objectives in the community,


• Coordinate functional, academic, social, communication, and mobility skills


• Effectively and safely transition into adult community living.


• Demonstrate appropriate social and behavioral skills in the community

CBI Pre-Planning

1. Identify individual student need documented in the IEP through assessment and data collection


2. Gather information from parent/guardian using a CBI Activity Checklist.


3. Complete the CBI Activity Checklist for Teachers.


4. Align classroom instruction with student need.


5. Complete school and community observations. Review how CBI differs from Field Trips.


6. Practice safety procedures. There is a sample safety lesson plan.


7. Once student has demonstrated the skill in the classroom and school setting, identify a location to replicate the skill in the community


8. Complete the Instructional Strategy Plan.


9. Download and complete requisition and submit to the Instructional Specialist to request CBI funds within designated timelines.

Once Notification of Approval for Funds is Received

1. Submit Instructional Strategy Plan to administrator


2. Secure Parent Permission


3. Complete Student Locator form and leave a copy in the school office.


4. Review CBI Safety and Emergency Procedures


5. Make request for CBI transportation.


6. Determine performance date for progress monitoring


7. Submit all original receipts of the activity to the school's bookkeeper following the CBI activity

The bookkeeper should receive approved funds from the District's Budget Office
within 5-7 business days via courier based on the courier schedule.

For additional information review the CBI PowerPoint.

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