A Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) encompasses both the academic and social-emotional-behavioral demands of learning. MTSS is a term used to describe an evidence-based model of educating students that uses data and problem solving to integrate academic, behavior, and social, emotional instruction and intervention to maximize the success of all students. Instruction and intervention is provided to students across multiple tiers of intensity based on need.

The key components of MTSS include:

• Universal screening of all students early in the school year
• Tiers of interventions that can be amplified in response to levels of need
• Ongoing data collection and continual assessment
• Schoolwide approach to expectations and supports
• Parent involvement

Tiers of MTSS

• Tier 1: encompasses the entire school with core instructions and basic interventions.
• Tier 2:Target interventions that are provided to a group of students who have been identified as not responding to the universal Tier 1 intervention. Interventions are provided in group format.
• Tier 3: A subset of students has significant challenges that do not respond to the interventions and supports in Tier 1 or Tier 2. Tier 3 gives these students individualized supports and can include assistance from outside agencies such as behavioral counselors or family therapists.