What is MTSS?

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process is a three-tiered approach to providing quality instruction to meet the individual needs of all students. This model combines a standard system of assessment with high-quality instruction. Varying levels of interventions and services are designed for those students who are struggling. These levels are called tiers of instruction. The three tiers are on a continuum that is fluid, as the student’s level of need dictates the level of support. This movement relies on careful decision making that occurs through deliberate data collection and thoughtful analysis facilitated by a school team including the classroom teacher. Additionally, MTSS may also help schools identify students who are eligible for an exceptional student education program. However, it is important to note that the goal of the MTSS framework is to expand and implement instructional alternatives, settings, and support systems before exceptional education services are considered. The state of Florida adopts the definition of MTSS as the practice of (1) providing highquality instruction/intervention matched to student needs and (2) using learning rate over time and level of performance to (3) make important educational decisions to guide instruction (National Association of State Directors of Special Education, 2005). The MTSS model is a multi-tiered approach to providing high quality instruction and intervention matched to student needs, using learning rate over time and level of performance to inform instructional decisions. MTSS involves the systematic use of assessment data to most efficiently allocate resources in order to improve learning for all students. The essential components of MTSS include: ? Multiple tiers of evidence-based instruction service delivery. ? A problem-solving method designed to inform the development of interventions. ? An integrated data collection/assessment system to inform decisions at each tier of service delivery (Florida Problem Solving & Response to Intervention, 2008).