NJTSS/RTI

NJTSS is a framework compiled of core components for multi-tiered academic and behavioral supports designed to promote student achievement and success and response to intervention (RTI). NJTSS is a framework for supporting students through a continuum of services provided through core programs and interventions; the use of data to drive decisions builds upon the Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) process; the NJTSS framework provides schools with a structure for meeting the academic, behavioral, health, enrichment, and social and emotional needs of all students.

NJTSS includes nine essential components that promote prevention and provide the interventions and enrichment that each and every child needs to achieve. NJTSS aligns resources, from within schools, across school districts and within communities and counties, to provide the right interventions to the right students at the right times. The ultimate goal is to provide instruction and behavioral supports that prepare every student for postsecondary education, career and life in the community. Through regular monitoring of student progress, along with data-based decision making by problem-solving teams and a continuum of supports and interventions based on student performance, NJTSS integrates the various teams and expertise in schools and communities to maximize the efficient use of resources and the effectiveness of interventions.

The essential components of NJTSS are:

• Effective district and school leadership

• Family and community engagement

• Positive school culture and climate

• High-quality learning environments, curricula, and instructional practices

• Universal screening

• Data-based decision making

• Collaborative problem-solving teams

• Progress monitoring

• Staff professional development.

I&RS

Intervention & Referral Services (I&RS) is an interdisciplinary team of professionals within the school environment who come together throughout the school year to formulate coordinated services and team delivery systems to address the full range of student learning, behavior, social, and health problems in the general education program as well as for students determined to be in need of special education programs and services. According to N.J.A.C 6A:16-8.1.,8.2 the goal of the committee is to see measurable student improvement in the identified targeted areas. Staff members refer students to the I&RS Committee through the building principal, who then advises the parents of the referral. The I&RS Committee develops an Action Plan containing goals, interventions, and a timeline for the plan's duration.

Phase 1: Request for Assistance - Phase 2: Information Collection - Phase 3: Parent/Guardian Notification Phase - 4: Problem Solve Phase - 5: Develop I&RS Action Plan Phase - 6: Support, Evaluate and Continue the Process

Our Morris Avenue Team

Matthew Johnson, Building Principal

Nicole Trainor, Student Advisor/I&RS Team Leader

Tracey Cistaro, Preschool Intervention & Referral Team

Mary Alice Kurdyla, Master Teacher

Kim Douglas, Special Education Teacher

Diane Anthony, School Nurse

Tiffani Rosati, School Psychologist

Maureen Dalton, Speech/Language Specialist