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Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)

Jeffco Public Schools uses a Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) framework to organize and provide academic and social, emotional, and behavioral instruction and supports to ensure that every student receives what they need in order to be successful. 

MTSS focuses on preventing learning difficulties by ensuring that students receive the support they need, when they need it. MTSS is an integration of two educational frameworks, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and  Response to Intervention (RtI).

An MTSS includes student support in three areas – academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning. These supports are leveled or tiered within an MTSS, which means they’re layered on top of one another. 

  • The first level (Tier 1) includes universal supports which all students receive, such as core academic or social-emotional instruction. 
  •  A second level of support (Tier 2) offers additional instruction and intervention for students who need more than Tier 1 alone.  
  • A third level (Tier 3) exists for students who need intensive support in addition to tier 1 and tier 2 supports.

Family or caregiver involvement in MTSS is crucial. They play a vital role in MTSS by being part of discussions, sharing observations about their student's progress, and supporting strategies used at home. Open communication between parents and teachers is highly encouraged. If you have concerns or questions about your student’s progress or support being provided, please reach out to your student’s school.

What is Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports?

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a way for schools to create a positive and supportive environment for all students as part of a multi-tiered system. PBIS is about creating a school community where everyone feels valued and supported. It helps students learn, grow, and succeed by focusing on the positive and providing the tools they need to build and use skills . Here’s how it works:  

  • Clear Expectations: Schools have clear expectations for behavior. It’s like a roadmap to help everyone know how to act in different situations.
  • Teaching Behaviors: Teachers teach students the behaviors they want to see. It's like learning a new game or skill. Students know what’s expected and they get lots of support to do well.
  • Positive Reinforcement: When students demonstrate the school and classroom expectations, they receive positive feedback and acknowledgment. This helps build skills and maintain expected behaviors.
  • Support for Challenges: If a student is having a tough time, PBIS provides extra help and support. It’s like having a coach who helps you get better at a sport. Teachers, staff, students, and families/caregivers work together to find solutions.
  • Consistency: PBIS is used consistently by everyone in the school. It’s like everyone playing by the same rules in a game. It creates a fair and supportive environment for everyone.

PBIS in Legislation

The Individual Students with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Federal Rules and Every Student Succeeds Education Act (ESSA) ensure the use of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports to improve outcomes for students.

What is Response to Intervention

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a preventive approach to improving individual student outcomes through high-quality universal instruction within a multi-tiered system that connects supports matched to students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Within RTI, supports are layered on top of one another to ensure that students receive the support they need to be successful.

RTI in Legislation

The following Colorado statutes, rules, and guidance require the Response to Intervention practices:

  • The Exceptional Children’s Education Act (ECEA) created provisions to identify and support the needs of gifted students and students with disabilities   
  • HB 12-1238 READ Act (Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act) to support students identified as having a significant reading deficiency 
  • SB 09-90 SACPIE (State Advisory Council for Parent Involvement in Education) to support best practices for family engagement and partnering for student success

Contact Us

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)

Contact your student’s school for questions about the MTSS resources and supports at your student’s school.