Brandi Simonsen

Dr. Brandi Simonsen is a tenured Professor of Special Education in the Department of Educational Psychology at the Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut. She serves as Co-Director of the Center for Behavioral Education and Research (CBER) and the National Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and is Co-Principal Investigator of the National Multi-Tiered System of Supports Research Network (MTSS-RN). Additionally, she advises the National Center on Intensive Interventions and serves on the editorial board for the Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Special Education: Exceptional Learner, University of Oregon, 2002
• M.S. in Special Education: Exceptional Learner, University of Oregon, 1999
• B.A. in Elementary Education and Psychology, William and Mary, 1998

Dr. Simonsen's research focuses on evidence-based behavioral strategies with three core emphases:

• School- and class-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
• Positive and proactive professional development for teachers
• Applications of PBIS in alternative education settings for students with high-risk behaviors

Analysis of her recent publications reveals significant trends toward districtwide PBIS scaling, integration of behavioral practices into academic instruction (particularly reading), and technology-enhanced self-monitoring interventions. Her work increasingly addresses systemic implementation challenges and equity considerations for students with disabilities within multi-tiered frameworks.

With extensive practical experience as former director of a non-public school for students with disabilities, Dr. Simonsen bridges research and practice through national technical assistance initiatives. Her grant-funded work with the National MTSS Research Network and PBIS Technical Assistance Center drives evidence-based implementation across diverse educational settings.

Her laboratory activities center at UConn's Center for Behavioral Education and Research (CBER), which collaborates with national partners to develop resources, conduct implementation research, and provide training for educators nationwide.