Multi-Tiered System of Support

What is Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS)?

At Sunnybrae, we are committed to helping all students succeed and that is why we use a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to support all students. MTSS is a data-driven, multi-tiered approach to providing support to all students in academics, social/emotional and behavioral areas. This is a school-wide process to ensure that all students learn and make progress. It involves quality instruction and interventions that are matched to students’ needs. This framework begins with high-quality, culturally responsive differentiated instruction, positive behavior systems, universal screening and data analysis of all children’s learning in the classroom. It is a proactive approach instead of reactive. 

MTSS follows four essential components:  

 (1)   a school-wide, multi-level instructional and behavioral system for preventing school failure and for differentiating instruction for students who have already mastered the curriculum

(2)   screening: identifying students who need  extra support or need extra enrichment

(3)   progress monitoring: continuous  assessment

 (4)   data-based decision making for instruction: using various data-points to make decisions

 Students are expected to move within the multi-level system, and disability identification is done in accordance with state law. Each component is essential in making the framework work properly. 

All Students: Tier 1

Tier I: Supports given to ALL students in the classroom.

• Best teaching practices and responsive behavior management in the classroom
• Core instruction in the general education classroom
• Preventative, proactive strategies and monitoring of progress in the classroom
• Classroom-centered support strategies
• Collaborative process between teacher and school staff 

Some Students: Tier 2

Tier II: Supports given to some students (approximately 8-15%)

• Tier 1 PLUS strategic interventions/supports beyond the classroom teacher
• Targeted instruction provided by the teacher or a specialist
• Takes may place inside or outside the classroom

 Few Students: Tier 3

Tier III: Supports given to even fewer students (approximately 5-8%)

• Intensive intervention outside the general education classroom
• Preliminary consideration of Special Education
• Referral to the Student Support Team (SST) process to discuss the student concerns and generate a plan to support the child