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Defining MTSS
Defining MTSS
Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) is a comprehensive framework that helps educators provide academic and behavioral strategies for students with various needs (McIntosh & Goodman, 2016). MTSS grew out of the integration of two other intervention-based frameworks: Response-to-Intervention (RtI) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). These approaches rely on a philosophy that preventing problems is more effective, for more students, than treating them as they arise. Additionally, this prevention focus includes intervention for all students, regardless of risk, and a continuum of support provided for those who need more assistance to be successful.
The rationale for multi-tiered systems of support is to provide early and systematic intervention to all students, with increasing intensity of intervention as needed (Sugai & Horner, 2010). These systems generally offer three levels of support in which Tier 1 (universal) is applied with all students in a school, Tier 2 (targeted) is used with about 15% of students who are at risk for more serious concerns, and Tier 3 (intensified, individualized) is reserved for 3-5% of the school population with the most serious academic or behavioral problems. Schools collect and use data to determine the necessary level of support students need and allocate resources along the continuum as appropriate. Click the button below to learn more about data-based decision making. Ideally, schools implement this framework flexibly within the context of their individual school system.
key components of mtss
key components of mtss
A focus on Tier 1 efforts, including a focus on wellness of teachers and students, is necessary to reduce burden on Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions.
Tiers of interventions with increasing levels of targeted supports for students who are struggling
Comprehensive universal screening for all students
Ongoing data collection and frequent monitoring of student progress so educators can use data to inform their decision making
Integrated plans that address students' academic, behavioral, emotional, and social needs
The use of evidence based strategies at each tier
A school-wide approach to support in which teachers, administrators, school counselors, psychologists, and other specialists work together as a team to assess students' needs and plan interventions.
Professional development for staff including coaching
Family and community involvement to promote support and collaboration across various contexts
(McIntosh & Goodman, 2016)
the three tiers
the three tiers
Tier 1 supports serve as the foundation for behavior and academics. Schools provide these universal supports to all students. For most students (approximately 80% of students), the core program gives them what they need to be successful and to prevent future problems. For more information on trauma-responsive Tier 1 supports, click here.
Tier 2 interventions provide targeted support to students who are nonresponsive to Tier 1 universal supports. This level of support focuses on improving specific skill deficits students have.Typically, Tier 2 interventions are provided in the form of standardized programs aimed to address the needs of multiple students at once, making them highly efficient and feasible. Students may need some assessment to identify whether they need this level of support and which skills to address. Tier 2 supports help students develop the skills they need to benefit core programs at the school. For more information on trauma-responsive Tier 2 supports, click here.
Tier 3 supports are the most intensive supports that the school offers due to the individualized approach of developing and carrying out interventions. At this level, schools typically rely on formal assessments to determine a student’s need and to develop an individualized support plan. Student plans often include goals related to both academics as well as behavior support. For more information on trauma-responsive Tier 3 supports click here.
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