MTSS uses a four-tiered approach to identifying students’ academic, social and emotional needs. Here’s what that looks like:
Tier 1: Classroom instruction with responsive teaching
The classroom teacher or counselors structure their teaching to respond to students’ needs within the classroom environment.
Tier 2: Small group / individual instruction
In addition to offering responsive teaching within the classroom (Tier 1), the classroom teacher or counselors target small group or individual instruction to fit the needs within the classroom.
Tier 3: Intensive instruction and intervention
In addition to offering responsive teaching within the classroom (Tier 1) and small group / individual instruction (Tier 2), the classroom teacher and specialized educators offer intensive instruction and intervention for a student in and/or out of the classroom.
Tier 4: Specially designed instruction
In addition to offering responsive teaching within the classroom (Tier 1) and small group / individual instruction (Tier 2), the classroom teacher and specialized educators offer specially designed instruction in and/or out of the classroom.