Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

Redbank Valley Primary and Intermediate Schools

A multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) is a proactive and preventative framework that integrates data and instruction to maximize student achievement and support students social, emotional, and behavior needs from a strengths-based perspective. MTSS offers a framework for educators to engage in data-based decision making related to program improvement, high-quality instruction and intervention, social and emotional learning, and positive behavioral supports necessary to ensure positive outcomes for districts, schools, teachers, and students. The MTSS framework is comprised of four essential components: screening, progress monitoring, multi-level prevention system, and data-based decision making.

Core programming at Tier 1 includes academic, social, emotional, and behavioral curriculum, instruction, and supports aligned to grade-level standards and student needs. At Tier 1, educators use instructional strategies and practices shown to be effective for the student population and educational context. In effective Tier 1 systems, most students benefit from Tier 1 programming alone and teachers use differentiation to ensure all students can access and benefit from core programming. Consistency in the use of evidence-based practices and supports is essential for collective efficacy at Tier 1. Effective Tier 1 ensures positive school climate and conditions for learning.

At Tier 2, schools provide standardized interventions that target academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs using validated programs to support students identified as at-risk. Teams select or design interventions and supports that have demonstrated positive effects for desired outcomes and are aligned with student needs. Tier 2 interventions and supports are delivered with fidelity at an appropriate duration and frequency to ensure students have increased opportunities for practice and corrective feedback.

At Tier 3, educators provide intervention to help students with severe and persistent learning and/or social-emotional-behavioral needs, including students with disabilities. It is provided to students not responding to Tier 2 interventions and who may have low achievement or ongoing, intensive needs. Designing Tier 3 supports is a data-driven process that is characterized by increased intensity and individualization of instruction and supports.