Lecture Notes: Importance of Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS)

Introduction

• Presenter: Dr. Katie Novak
• Topic: Importance of building a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS)
• Context: Reflects on changes starting from 2012 due to the Race to the Top initiative

Key Changes from the Race to the Top (2012)

1. Common Core Standards
   • Focus on college and career readiness for all students
2. Transition from RTI to MTSS
   • Move from a reactive system (Response to Intervention - RTI) to a proactive MTSS
3. Educator Evaluation Overhaul
   • Key domains:
     • Curriculum and instruction
     • Teaching all students (inclusion focus)
     • Collaborating with families and communities
     • Renewed focus on professional development

Focus of MTSS

• Standards-Based Lessons: Design to eliminate barriers, making all students future-ready
• Universal Design for Learning: Move from "one-size-fits-all" to a more inclusive teaching and learning model
• Massachusetts MTSS Blueprint: Initiated the focus on necessary systematic factors for student success

Differences Between MTSS and RTI

• RTI
  • Initially an alternative evaluation for special education
  • Focused on individual students with disabilities
• MTSS
  • Recognizes system-level barriers
  • All students are Tier 1 initially, with additional support as needed

Implementation of MTSS

• System Design: Adjusting systems to meet the needs of all learners, thus enhancing achievement
• Overcoming Barriers
  • Barriers include lack of scheduling, resources, PD for teachers, and data-driven decision-making
• MTSS Framework
  • All students deserve rich Tier 1 instruction
  • Additional Tier 2/3 support for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs

Importance of Equity and Inclusion

• All students should succeed with diverse peers
• Aim to dismantle restrictive learning environments

Evidence-Based Practices

• Shift from "research-based" (No Child Left Behind) to "evidence-based" (Every Student Succeeds Act - ESSA)
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL): 30 years of research supports UDL's effectiveness for engagement with rigorous curriculum
• Gold Standard Research: Effective practices require peer-reviewed evidence of success

Conclusion

• MTSS has demonstrated effectiveness when based on evidence-based programs and professional development
• Goal: Build systems ensuring academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success across schools and districts.