What is True

• Tier 2 and Tier 3 are a supplement to core instruction, meaning time is built into the master schedule that provides students with an appropriate intervention. State law requires students to have 30 minutes of an evidence-based intervention in addition to core minutes for Tier 2 and Tier 3. For example; 120 minute ELA block, a student who qualifies for Tier 2 or Tier 3 will have a minimum of 150 minutes of ELA support if this is the target area. 

• Progress monitoring in Tier 2 and Tier 3 frequency depends on how fast a student can master the skill. For example, letter naming, sounds assessment can be given weekly because the skill can be mastered in a shorter amount of time. But, for comprehension assessing, these skills take more times so it is not advised to progress monitoring weekly but rather every 3-4 weeks. 

• Tier 2 and Tier 3 is not a pathway to SPED, the goal is for students to gain academic progress through an evidence-based interventions. The main purpose of the supplement is to catch up growth and ensure students can find better success in the classroom. 

• Tier 2 interventions are provided after the teacher in the classroom has worked with the student for a minimum of 6 weeks to determine if a supplement is needed. Students are not moved immediately into Tier 2 once a benchmark is collected. 

• Tier 2 and Tier 3 students need Tier 1 small group support in addition to their intervention support. Teachers should be working with Tier 2 and 3 students in small group daily so they can receive the most intensive support to improve academic performance. 

• MLP services do not classify as an intervention. ML students can receive Tier 2 or Tier 3 support in addition to their MLP services. However, careful consideration needs to take place before providing the supplement. Refer to page 119 of the SC MTSS Guidance Document.