Cheerleaders for Change: How School Counselors Champion Student Success with CICO
Building Strong Relationships to Foster Positive Student Behavior
As school counselors, we are more than just problem-solvers—we are champions for our students. One of the most powerful ways we support behavior, connection, and growth is by implementing interventions that offer structure, encouragement, and a deep sense of belonging. One such intervention, Check-In/Check-Out (CICO), stands out as a highly effective Tier 2 strategy that centers relationships at its core.
CICO Intervention Overview
Check-In/Check-Out (CICO), also known as the Behavior Education Program (BEP), is a proactive behavioral support designed to provide students with structured daily interactions with a trusted adult mentor. These check-ins offer consistent opportunities for feedback, reflection, and encouragement.
The CICO framework supports students by:
Increasing adherence to school-wide behavior expectations
Reducing office discipline referrals
Minimizing mild disruptive behaviors
Enhancing academic engagement and prosocial behaviors
Research shows that students who seek connection or struggle with low-level disruptive behaviors benefit immensely from the consistency and connection CICO provides.
The Counselor’s Role: Leading with Heart
Counselors aren’t just implementers of CICO—we are the heart behind it. We are in a unique position to build trust, cultivate hope, and empower students to grow. Below are key ways counselors lead CICO with intention and impact.
1. Relationship Building: The Foundation of Success
At the core of every effective CICO plan is a strong, trusting relationship between the student and their CICO champion. Counselors are especially equipped to build these authentic connections—making students feel seen, heard, and valued.
The morning check-in sets a positive tone for the day, while the afternoon check-out creates space for reflection and reinforcement. To deepen these connections, I include two simple but powerful questions on students’ CICO forms:
What is something you are grateful for today?
What is something you are looking forward to today?
These questions help students maintain a positive mindset and allow me to learn more about who they are—beyond their behavior.
2. Encouraging Students by Highlighting Their Strengths
CICO isn’t just about correcting misbehavior—it’s about recognizing and amplifying what students do well. Each interaction should include behavior-specific praise to reinforce effort and improvement. When we highlight students’ strengths, we empower them to take ownership of their growth and build long-lasting self-confidence.
Inviting students to set personal daily goals helps them approach the day with purpose. When those goals are based on their strengths, students begin to view themselves as capable, resilient, and in control of their future.
3. Identifying Meaningful Incentives to Foster Intrinsic Motivation
For CICO to succeed, students must feel motivated to participate. As counselors, we help students identify incentives that are meaningful to them—rewards that align with their interests and values. While external rewards like stickers or privileges can be helpful in the short term, our goal is to move students toward intrinsic motivation.
Helping students connect behavior expectations with their vision for the future creates a sense of purpose. When they see that their actions today shape the life they want tomorrow, behavior change becomes personal and powerful.
How to Implement CICO Effectively
Identify Students Who Will Benefit
Use behavior data to identify students with frequent low-level disruptions.
Collaborate with teachers and student support teams to select appropriate candidates.
Develop an Individualized Plan
Assign a trusted adult champion.
Set clear behavior goals and tracking methods.
Execute Daily Check-Ins and Check-Outs
Morning Check-In: Review goals, offer encouragement, and set the tone.
Throughout the Day: Teachers provide behavior feedback.
Afternoon Check-Out: Reflect, celebrate wins, and discuss areas of improvement.
Monitor Progress and Make Adjustments
Use data to assess growth.
Adjust goals or supports as needed for continued progress.
CICO in Your School District
Many districts incorporate CICO into their PBIS and MTSS frameworks as a relationship-based tool for behavior support. As school counselors, we have the responsibility—and the privilege—to advocate for its thoughtful, widespread implementation.
But our influence goes beyond planning and paperwork. We must lead with empathy, heart, and high expectations. When we step up as champions for our students—especially those who feel disconnected or discouraged—we model what it means to believe in someone. And that belief can change everything.
Final Thoughts
Check-In/Check-Out is more than a behavior strategy—it’s a relationship-building opportunity that allows students to feel supported, encouraged, and capable of change. When counselors serve as champions and cheerleaders, we help students reframe how they see themselves and what they’re capable of achieving. With consistency, compassion, and connection, CICO becomes a powerful bridge between where students are and where they’re going.
