Tier II interventions are direct interventions implemented in a standardized approach, meaning key features of the intervention look similar across all children receiving the intervention. Since Tier II interventions are standardized, there should be continuous availability, which allows for quick access to the intervention. These interventions are geared toward skill development and/or increasing protective factors for students and their families. Examples of Tier II interventions include, but are not limited to, Check-In and Check-Out programs and skill development groups.
Much of the success when developing and implementing Tier 2 practices hinges on the foundation that has already been laid. A majority of system level change required to facilitate identification of students who require additional support and effective delivery of research-based interventions have already been developed if schools are effectively implementing a schoolwide approach for Tier 1.
Before moving forward with development and implementation of Tier 2 practices, schools should consider the extent to which the schoolwide system and Tier 1 practices are in place. Meeting the criteria shown in this Tier 2 Readines Checklist is generally a broad indicator of readiness.