Exemplars & MTSS

What is Multi-Tiered System of Support?

MTSS is a framework that many schools use to provide targeted support to struggling students. It focuses on the “whole child.” MTSS supports academic growth and achievement, but it also supports many other areas. This includes behavior, social and emotional needs, and absenteeism.

Get a one-page fact sheet on MTSS.

The multi-tiered supports are a huge part of MTSS. These tiers of support increase in intensity from one level to the next. For example, some kids receiving small-group interventions may need to “move up” to one-on-one help.

The MTSS model can help general education students receive interventions sooner. It can also help identify sooner which students need special education.

How MTSS Works

MTSS isn’t a particular “curriculum.” It’s a proactive approach that has several key elements:

• Universal screening for all students early in each school year
• Increasing levels of targeted support for those who are struggling
• Integrated plans that address students’ academic, behavioral, social and emotional needs
• The use of evidence-based strategies
• A school-wide approach to student support. Teachers, counselors, psychologists and other specialists work as a team when they assess students and plan interventions.
• Professional development so staff can deliver interventions and monitor progress effectively
• Family involvement so parents can understand the interventions and provide support at home
• Frequent monitoring of students’ progress so educators can use this data to help decide if more interventions are needed

Some school districts use a system with four tiers of support. But it’s more common for districts to use three tiers. Here is a basic outline of how a three-tiered system works.

• Tier 1: The Whole Class. All students are taught with methods that research has shown to be effective. All students are screened to see who is and isn’t responding to these strategies. Kids may be broken into small groups that address different strengths and areas of need.
• Tier 2: Small Group Interventions. Some students receive more targeted support in small groups. The scheduling of these interventions is important. The goal is to keep students from missing any core instruction or other Tier 1 activities that might make it harder to catch up.
• Tier 3: Intensive, Individualized Support. A few students who move up to this most intensive level of support continue with Tier 1 activities. Their break-out groups are smaller than in Tier 2. And these sessions last longer and are more narrowly focused.

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