Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) is a framework that schools follow to help all students succeed. It combines multiple levels of support to ensure that all students receive necessary interventions. MTSS is designed to address the diverse needs of students in behavior, academics, and mental wellness. For behavior, MTSS includes strategies such as positive reinforcement and behavioral interventions to promote a positive school environment. Academically, it provides tailored instructions and targeted interventions to help students meet learning goals. For mental wellness, resources like counseling and social-emotional learning programs exist for emotional health. By addressing these three areas, MTSS fosters a holistic approach to student success. Think of MTSS like a ladder with three steps. Each step gives more help to students who need it.
Tier 1 supports focus on the whole classroom and school. Examples include a positive school environment through schoolwide expectations, group activities, games, and different ways to explain things, and rewards to recognize when kids do well. Teachers adapt strategies to make sure everyone learns. To ensure students are successful with the supports provided, schools look at data on behavior and academics regularly and make changes. Most students do well with just this tier of high-quality services and supports.
Tier 2 supports go beyond what is offered in Tier 1. Students may get extra lessons in small groups with different ways of learning, or they may meet a few times a week to practice on reading or math. Small social skills or counseling groups offer targeted support. The goal is to help students catch up and boost skills.
Tier 3 supports help students who need intensive interventions just for them. A student may work one-on-one with a teacher or specialist. The lessons are customized for the individual. This step helps with specific learning needs or challenges. Community providers from outside the school may help deliver supports.
Teachers must check on students often for MTSS to work, they use tests and observations to track students’ progress. If they’re struggling, they get moved to the next step for additional help. If they improve, they may no longer need more intensive supports. Schools have ways to determine when a student needs to move up and down steps. Families should be aware of how tiers work and what supports their student gets. They can help by sharing information and reinforcing school practices.
It makes sure no student is left behind and every student gets the help they need to succeed. It also helps teachers and families understand how to support their children better. With MTSS, schools can create a positive and effective learning environment for everyone.
MTSS is like a ladder with three steps. Each step gives more help to students who need it. Tier 1 includes supports for everyone, Tier 2 supports provide extra targeted help, and Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized supports. By checking on students often, teachers can make sure everyone gets the help they need to succeed. MTSS is important because it helps all students learn and grow. Families are important partners to schools using MTSS frameworks.