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Multi-Tiered System of Support

What is MTSS?

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a framework schools use to make sure every student receives the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and other supports they need to be successful.

Through MTSS, school staff work together to identify each student's strengths and needs, monitor their progress, and provide additional support or enrichment when needed. The goal is to respond early and effectively, whether a student is experiencing difficulty or needs opportunities to extend their learning.

How Does MTSS Support Students?

MTSS begins with high-quality instruction and support for all students. Teachers and school staff use student progress and other information to determine when additional support may be helpful.

Key parts of the MTSS process include:

  • High-quality core instruction in academics, behavior, and social-emotional wellness
  • Setting goals and monitoring student progress
  • Using data to make decisions about student needs and supports
  • Providing evidence-based interventions when additional support is needed
  • Using a Student Support Team (SST) to help guide the process
  • Partnering with families to support student success

Families Are Important Partners

Families are an essential part of the MTSS process. Parents and guardians provide valuable information about their child's strengths, needs, and experiences and work with school staff to develop appropriate goals and supports.

Families should be kept informed about their student's learning goals, support plan, and progress. If you are invited to participate in a Student Support Team meeting, your perspective is an important part of helping the team understand your child and determine appropriate next steps.

Have a Concern About Your Child?

If you have concerns about your child's academic progress, behavior, or experience at school, start by contacting your child's teacher. Your child's teacher can discuss what they are seeing at school and how you can work together to support your child. 

MTSS Family Guide

Learn more about MTSS, Student Support Teams, and how families participate in the process by viewing the PWCS MTSS Family Guide in your preferred language.

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