MTSS is a prevention-based framework of team-driven, data-based problem solving to improve the outcomes of every student through family, school, and community partnering, comprehensive screening and assessment, and a layered continuum of evidence-based practices applied at classroom and school level.
What is the difference between MTSS and RtI?
While RtI focuses on direct services, supports, and interventions for students at risk, MTSS is a systematic approach that addresses conditions for creating successful and sustainable system change while also supporting students and staff. As opposed to a reactive model that responds to student achievement declines as a rationale for resources and services, MTSS puts the onus on the system, not the student, and is proactive in getting all students what they need.
-Massachussets Department of Education, Multi Tiered System of Support
Contact
Jessica Welch
Chief of School Programs
720-827-7616
Team-Driven Shared Leadership
The Team-Driven Shared Leadership component of MTSS includes team structures that focus on distributing responsibility and shared decision-making within schools to effectively design and use systems of training, coaching, resources, implementation, and evaluation. Team structures include regular meeting times, clear roles and responsibilities, consistent lines of communication, and protocols for meetings, decision making, and accountability.
Evidence-Based Problem Solving
The Evidence-Based Problem Solving component of MTSS includes a continuous improvement process used by teams to collect, analyze, and evaluate information to inform decision making at the system, staff, and student levels.
Comprehensive Screening and Assessment
The Comprehensive Screening and Assessment System component of MTSS is the coordinated effort of gathering information across multiple measures to support decision making at the system, staff, and student level for the whole child.
Layered Continuum of Supports
The Layered Continuum of Supports component of MTSS includes ensuring that every student receives equitable whole child supports that are evidence based, culturally responsive, matched to need, and developmentally appropriate through layered supports. This component may also include developing and delivering differentiated staff supports, such as coaching, mentoring, professional learning opportunities, etc.
Family, School, and Community Partnerships
The Family, School, and Community Partnerships component of MTSS includes families, early-childhood programs, schools, and communities actively partnering to develop, implement, and evaluate effective and equitable practices to improve educational outcomes for children and youth.
FSCP Resources