MTSS, or Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, is a process GCES utilizes to provide effective supports to students in need. To understand MTSS, it is best to first explain the three tiered system of support. Tier 1 is universal support. This is conducted by the classroom teacher and implemented within the classroom. Tier 1 support could be individual academic interventions, small group instruction, or informal behavior plans created and implemented by the classroom teacher. All students benefit from Tier 1 support, hence "universal". Tier 2 support is targeted intervention. Students needing Tier 2 support are first seen by our interventionists. We have both a reading and mathematics intervention teacher who conduct small group instruction focused on specific skills. These interventions are implemented outside of the classroom for 30-45 minutes each school day. Finally, Tier 3 is intensive support. Often students requiring Tier 3 support are in the Special Education population with an IEP (Individualized Education Plan). These students maintain instruction in the general education environment and also receive special education services from a special education teacher. For students to receive different tiered instruction, they first go through the MTSS process. Students can be referred to the MTSS team by classroom teachers, who document the Tier 1 interventions already put into place, with an explanation why the Tier 1 interventions were insufficient, rooted in student achievement data. To be referred to the MTSS team, classroom teachers complete a document outlining the interventions and data already in place, and parents complete a questionnaire about the student. The MTSS team (which consists of classroom teachers, special education teachers, mental health providers, interventionists, and the MTSS coordinator) then reviews the documents and discusses next steps for the student. This consists of additional interventions or observations and members of the MTSS team are accountable for their implementation. In order for a student to be referred for special education testing, the student must go through the MTSS process first receiving both Tier 1 and Tier 2 support, and have the team deem those supports ineffecient.