Multi Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework used to provide targeted supports. When implemented with fidelity, MTSS helps to identify struggling students and provides tiered intervention. MTSS models focus on the "whole child" and supports academic, behavioral, college & career readiness life skills, and attendance. The tiers of support help to address students based on their individual needs through school wide, small group, and one to one interventions.
Visit the SC State Department of Education to learn more!
The relationship between culture and climate and MTSS is cyclical. Positive school climate and the conditions for learning support effective implementation of MTSS. Similarly, when implemented with fidelity, MTSS helps districts and schools create positive environments and the conditions for learning for all students, which in turn, can improve and maintain positive school culture and climate.
Establishing and maintaining positive culture and climate are essential for implementing and sustaining MTSS. When in place, positive culture and climate increase the likelihood of districts and schools:
Establishing and maintaining strong Tier 1 and Tier 2 preventions, interventions and supports;
Mitigating flooding of Tier 2 interventions and supports;
Minimizing or decreasing the number of students needing Tier 3 interventions and supports; and
Preventing overidentification of students perceived to be in need of special education services.
Strong MTSS establishes the conditions for learning wherein students feel socially connected, safe, supported and challenged. Moreover, positive culture and climate have been found to be leading indicators for such outcomes as increased academic achievement, increased teacher retention, and reduced discipline referrals.
The Pyramid Model is a comprehensive, multi-tiered framework of evidence-based practices that promotes the social, emotional, and behavioral development of young children. The emphasis of this framework is to support all children at the universal level, thereby decreasing the need for more intensive intervention.
In essence, the Pyramid Model is a focused MTSS structure for behavior that supports our youngest learners! For more information on implementation at supports, visit challengingbehavior.org.