Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)

MTSS refers to a “Multi-Tiered System of Support”.  It is an instructional framework that uses a 3-tiered model to proactively address the academic, social-emotional and behavioral needs of ALL students.  MTSS is the shared responsibility of ALL staff at Westerly Public Schools in meeting the individual needs of ALL Westerly students.

Tier 1 in MTSS includes our Universal Supports and Core Instruction using high-quality curriculums and instructional materials.  All students receive Tier 1 instruction and approximately 80-85% are expected to respond well.  We monitor student progress through administration of universal screening assessments 3x annually.

Tier 2 in MTSS refers to targeted interventions provided by classroom teachers, reading/math specialists, MLL teachers, school psychologists, school social workers, etc.  These supports can be delivered in the classroom or in small pull-out groups, and occur in addition to Tier 1 core instruction, not in place of.  Approximately 10-15% of students need targeted support.  Student progress in Tier 2 is reviewed regularly throughout the school year.

Tier 3 in MTSS refers to our most intensive services.  These are most often provided by reading/math specialists, school psychologists and/or school social workers.  These supports are most often delivered individually or in small groups outside of the classroom.  Tier 3 supports also occur in addition to Tier 1 core instruction, not in place of.  Student progress in Tier 3 is reviewed regularly throughout the school year.

Student support teams meet throughout the school year to review and analyze school and student data.  Teams use this data to make decisions about the effectiveness of instruction and interventions.  Teams may decide to increase the intensity of intervention in one or more of the following ways:

• Increasing time of instruction (more frequently and/or longer duration)
• Decreasing group size
• Changing program or intervention tool
• Changing service provider

It is important to note that MTSS is a framework for making decisions based on school and student data.  MTSS is not …

• A specific program
• A room or place within the school
• A specific person
• An evaluation system for teachers
• Test preparation for students
• A pathway to Special Education services
• An obstacle/barrier to Special Education services

What is your role as the parent/guardian?

• Communicate with the School: Stay in regular contact with your child's teachers and school staff.
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask about your child's progress, the interventions they are receiving, or any concerns you may have.
• Share Information: Provide insights into your child's strengths, challenges, and any relevant information from home.
• Support Learning at Home: Reinforce school efforts by supporting learning and positive behaviors at home.
• Attend Meetings: Participate in meetings where your child's progress and support plans are discussed.

How Does MTSS Benefit Your Child?

• Early Identification: Potential learning or behavioral challenges are identified early, allowing for timely support.
• Tailored Support: Your child receives interventions that are specifically designed to meet their unique needs.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Interventions are based on evidence and data, ensuring they are effective.
• Prevention, Not Just Reaction: MTSS aims to prevent problems from becoming larger issues.
• Collaborative Approach: Teachers, specialists, and families work together to support your child's success.
   

Concerned about your child’s progress?
If you have concerns about your child’s progress in school, please contact your child’s teacher to discuss what is being observed in the classroom.  A referral to the Student Support Team to discuss more targeted or intensive support may be the appropriate next step in supporting your child’s learning.

To learn more about the MTSS framework, visit the Rhode Island Department of Education’s website: https://ride.ri.gov/instruction-assessment/instructional-initiatives-resources/multi-tiered-system-supports-mtss