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Multi Tiered Support System (MTSS)

The purpose of the Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS) is to identify children who are struggling in school and ensure each child who is identified receives the right instruction or intervention to be successful. Think of it like a support ladder with three levels (or “tiers”):

Tier 1: Support for Everyone

This is the foundation. All students get strong, high-quality teaching in the classroom. Teachers check in regularly with all students to make sure they’re doing okay. The majority of students are successful in Tier 1. 

Tier 2: Extra Help for Some

Some students may need a little extra support—maybe in reading, math, or behavior. These students get small-group help in addition to regular class time. Teachers monitor how they’re doing and adjust as needed. 

Tier 3: Intensive Help for a Few

A small number of students may need intensive, individualized help. They may get one-on-one instruction or support tailored just for them. The goal is to give them what they need to catch up and succeed.

Essential components of MTSS include identification of struggling students, plans to address individual student academic or behavioral needs, targeted interventions, and progress monitoring.

How It All Works:

  • Teachers use data (like test scores, classroom work, or behavior observations) to see who needs help.
  • Support is flexible—students can move up or down the ladder as their needs change.
  • It’s not just about academics—it also includes behavioral and emotional support.
  • It’s a team approach, often including teachers, specialists, counselors, and parents.
  • Teachers refer students to the MTSS committee. 
  • The committee meets to determine a focus area to be targeted for intervention. 
  • The classroom teacher and/or campus intervention will provide specific, targeted instruction on that focus area with progress monitoring. 
  • The committee will meet again to review progress and determine next steps. 
  • Next steps can include:
    • Progress is made, and a new goal is determined
    • Progress is not made, and additional intervention is needed. 
    • Progress is made, and the student can exit MTSS. 
    • Progress is not made, and the student can be referred to the district referral committee for an evaluation. 

The MTSS process can last several weeks or months, depending on the needs of the student, with multiple meetings where the progress is discussed. 

MTSS helps make sure no student falls through the cracks. It gives the right support at the right time so every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

Please contact your child’s campus administrator for more information.