Tolland Public Schools is committed to support the whole student. We use a Mutli-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to meet student's individual academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. 

The Connecticut State Department of Education requires school districts to use a framework to address student needs. The framework we use for this support is known as Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).  MTSS ensures all students receive the appropriate level of support for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.  Our goal is to have a system of supports and resources available so we can intervene quickly as needs arise.

MTSS Components are Comprehensive

MTSS is designed to meet the unique needs of students in a flexible and customizable way. This approach is collaborative and team-based, driven by data, and can assist with special education decisions. It includes:

• High-quality curriculum and individualized instruction in the general education setting (Tier 1). 

• Universal common assessments used to measure students’ grade-level progress.  

• Research-based interventions for students who require additional academic or behavioral support or enrichment to make educational progress (Tier 2 and/or 3). 

• Data used to determine student progress. Examples of this data include benchmark assessment scores, grades, observations, and other data points. 

By critically evaluating our Tier 1 strategies and regularly reviewing data, we can identify which students may need additional support to be successful.

Benefits of MTSS

Through MTSS, students receive services based on needs. When students require support beyond tier 1 strategies, families are informed. A MTSS Team will also meet to determine next steps.  School staff monitors student progress closely to be sure the interventions are appropriate and successful. MTSS supports students outside of special education.

How Can Parents Be Involved?

• Communicate with your child's teacher(s)

• Participate in conferences and other meetings about your child

• Monitor and assist with Academic Practice

• Talk with your child about school progress on a regular basis

• Contact teachers if your child is having difficulty 

MTSS Terms

There are many terms used in MTSS  discussions.

• Differentiation: instructional adaptations made in the classroom to support the diverse learning styles and needs of all students. 

• Intervention: a method, program, or instructional condition that provides additional learning support. 

• Progress Monitoring: the practice of frequently assessing a student's growth. Progress monitoring helps educators identify student needs and determine appropriate supports  

• Universal Assessment: an academic assessment taken by all students at a given grade level.  Results are used to identify those students in need of academic support.