• What is MTSS?

    What is a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)? 

     

    A multi-tiered system of supports is a framework for effective team-based problem solving that is data-informed, evidence-based, and flexible enough to meet the academic and behavioral needs of all students. It is a prevention-based framework designed to improve learning outcomes through a layered continuum of supports (Three-Tiered Model).

    MTSS includes three tiers of support for students. Each tier targets a specific group of the student body. Below is a breakdown of each tier, along with a visual to better understand the targeted groups and how we support each tier at TMS.

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    • The foundation of MTSS at Thompson Middle School centers around P.R.I.D.E (perseverance, respect, integrity, dedication, excellence). Each behavior expectation is explicitly taught for specific settings at the school. Through the use of strategies, assemblies, modeling, and announcements, students are provided with a clear understanding of expected school behaviors in a variety of school settings, such as the classroom, hallways, office, and restrooms. School-wide behavior expectations are located throughout the campus to assist and reinforce the expected behaviors.

    • MTSS Consists of Six Essential Components: 

    • • Shared Leadership 

    • • Family, School, & Community Partnerships

    • • Data-Based Problem Solving and Decision Making 

    • • Layered Continuum of Supports (Tier I, Tier II, Tier III) 

    • • Evidence-Based Instruction, Intervention, & Assessment

    •  • Universal Screening & Progress Monitoring 

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    • The essential components of a MTSS allow for a continuum of supports, working together endlessly, to improve student academic and behavioral outcomes by design, and redesign, of appropriate services through promotion of equitable practices. 

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    What is a Layered Continuum of Supports? 

     

    A Layered Continuum of Supports includes three tiers of instruction. Each layer of support increases with intensity from universal (ALL students) to targeted (some students) to the most intensive supports (few students). 

     

    • Tier I is the UNIVERSAL layer of support for ALL students and consists of high-quality classroom instruction provided by highly trained and qualified personnel. Tier I instruction occurs in whole group, small group, and individual settings. It is ongoing and cannot be replaced by an additional tier. It is layered by adding additional supports as needed. 

     

    • Tier II is the TARGETED layer of support for SOME students that consists of supplemental academic and behavioral supports provided in addition to core high quality instruction. 

     

    • Tier III is the most INTENSIVE layer of support for FEW students and consists of the most intensive, targeted instruction and intervention specifically designed to meet the individual academic and behavioral needs of students