Operationalizing a Multi-Tiered System of Supports in Rhode Island Schools
Introduction:
The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) works to integrate mental well-being into a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) by increasing mental health literacy among educators, youth, and families, as well as provide early identification and tiered interventions to those that are in need.
In the Fall of 2023, the RIDE released its MTSS District Practice Profile to support and build capacity for district leaders and educators by developing and implementing an effective Multi-Tiered Systems of Support.
A Multi-Tiered System of Supports is defined as a “comprehensive continuum of evidence-based, systemic practices to support a rapid response to students’ needs, with regular observation to facilitate data-based instructional decision-making.” In Rhode Island, MTSS serves as a framework for school improvement, ensuring that all students, including multilingual learners and those with Individual Education Plans (IEPs), receive the necessary support for meeting academic, behavioral, and social-emotional outcomes. MTSS emphasizes three tiers of support, with each advanced tier building on the other.
Tier 1: School-Wide Universal Supports
In Tier 1, all students receive universal interventions. An example of a Tier 1 support is mental health literacy courses.
Tier 2: Targeted Supports
Tier 2 interventions are targeted supports for students unresponsive to Tier 1 practices. These supports, often conducted in groups, may include activities like social skills groups or lunch bunches.
Tier 3: Intensive, Individualized Support
Tier 3 interventions are provided to students who do not respond to Tier 2 interventions and may have ongoing, intensive needs. At this level, students receive intensive, individualized support, such as a referral to an outside mental health provider for those struggling with increased mental health needs.
Using the Rhode Island MTSS District Practice Profile
The intended use of the MTSS District Practice Profile is to inform the development of effective action plans, professional learning, coaching strategies, and implementation efforts as part of District strategic plans.
The MTSS District Practice Profile is comprised of five essential components and key elements. The five essential components include:
Team-Driven Shared Leadership
Data-based Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Layered Continuum of Supports
Evidence-based Practices
Family, School, and Community Partnering
While the primary audience of the RI MTSS District Practice Profile is district leaders, the engagement of community partners is integral to the success of the MTSS framework. Community partners working in schools may not always be familiar with the intricacies of school culture and legality. However, their understanding of the foundational principles of MTSS is crucial. MTSS serves as a bridge, bringing schools and community partners together for meaningful collaboration aimed at supporting student achievement.
Schools and community partners are highly encouraged to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the key goals of their partnership and defining the roles and responsibilities of each partner. An MOU typically includes specific commitments, objectives, and expectations from both parties. This proactive step, taken at the beginning of the partnership, not only fosters a shared understanding but also mitigates the potential for misunderstandings down the road. By collaborating effectively, schools and community partners can create a synergy that benefits the entire learning community. Regular communication, progress reviews, and feedback sessions further strengthen this collaborative effort, ensuring a dynamic and responsive support system for all students.
Community Partners interested in learning more about MTSS are welcome to join Rhode Island’s online professional learning community Bridge-RI, the home of MTSS in Rhode Island. This site hosts various modules geared toward increasing understanding and supporting capacity of school leaders, school practitioners, and community partners of implementation of MTSS and evidence-based practices.
Ongoing Work
The State Level MTSS Team is dedicated to sustaining its support for district leaders by offering continuous professional learning opportunities. These opportunities include engaging in online Communities of Practice designed to foster collaboration and provide guidance to districts in effectively implementing the MTSS framework. Through these virtual communities, district leaders can share insights, discuss challenges, and collectively work towards optimizing the impact of MTSS within their districts.
Moreover, recognizing the importance of implementing MTSS at the school level, the State Level MTSS Team is actively developing a School Level MTSS Practice Profile. This resource is specifically tailored to empower school leaders in effectively applying MTSS principles within their school buildings. The School Level MTSS Practice Profile serves as a comprehensive guide, offering practical insights and strategies to ensure seamless integration of MTSS practices at the building level. By equipping school leaders with this resource, the State Level MTSS Team aims to fortify the successful implementation of MTSS, fostering an environment that prioritizes the holistic well-being of every student.
In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of supporting our children's social, emotional, and behavioral health, collaboration between districts and community partners becomes paramount. By embracing the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), we ensure that all students receive the necessary interventions and support for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success. This collaborative effort not only enhances the overall learning environment but also creates a foundation for a brighter future for our children. Let's actively engage in this transformative framework, working together to build a brighter future for our children. For further exploration, delve into the Rhode Island MTSS District Practice Profile.
To learn more about Multi-Tiered Systems of Support in Rhode Island, explore the following:
