Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Overview

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework that focuses on intervention best practices within the areas of academics, behavior, and social/emotional support for the whole child. Tiers are based on the student and increase the level of support provided as a student moves from classroom-wide to target and intense interventions.

MTSS Tier 1

Tier 1 represents a universal approach to ensure all students experience a safe, supportive environment and receive high-quality core academic instruction and prevention-focused systems that promote positive behavior. This universal intervention is preventative and proactive and is for all students, 85-95%.

MTSS Tier 2

Tier 2 provides targeted, evidence-based academic and behavioral support to students for whom Tier 1 support is insufficient. This secondary intervention is a high-efficiency rapid response that includes classroom-based interventions or small-group interventions facilitated by a qualified professional. This tier is for some students, 5-10%.

MTSS Tier 3

Tier 3 provides highly intensive and individualized academic and behavioral support to students for whom Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports are insufficient. This tertiary intervention uses evidence-based supports layered on and aligned with the two previous tiers. This high-intensity, assessment-based tier is for individual students, 1-5%.