Multi-Tiered System of Support

We know our students each have a unique set of needs, and the teaching and learning in our classrooms must reflect that.

Through our Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework, educators and administrators have proven tools at their disposal to implement a timely and effective response to support a student's academic and non-academic achievement.

If a student's needs increase, the level of support does as well.

How MTSS Works

All schools have dedicated MTSS teams, representative of teachers and leaders throughout the building. These teams meet and discuss students who may need additional supports and review each student's supporting data.

Data-based Decision Making

Teams of educators work together to make data-based decisions for the school and for each individual student.
MTSS data teams meet every five weeks, in each school, to identify students who may need additional supports and interventions. These teams monitor students' progress and adjust plans as needed.
MTSS behavior teams also meet every two weeks, in each school, to provide quick access to support for students who are struggling with behavioral or social-emotional needs.

MTSS Screening Process

The MTSS Universal Screening Process provides a starting point for identification of students who may need additional support through the use of nationally normed assessments for literacy, math, and behavior.
MNPS uses multiple sources of data in the screening process, beginning with universal tools for academics and behavior:
- Fastbridge assessments: adaptive and curriculum-based measures for literacy and math
- Student Risk Screening Scale for Internalizing and Externalizing behavior (SRSS-IE): All students in a school are screened for behavior risks so educators can better identify a student’s needs.

Personalized Learning Time

Every day in every school, our schools honor Personalized Learning Time (PLT), during which students can receive extra support based on their individual needs. This includes Tier II or Tier III intervention services, Special Education interventions, and other instructional support along with Positive Schools Supports.
This time gives our teachers and school leaders the space they need to support our students with their most important job: learning.

MTSS by Tier

Tier 1 - High-Quality Teaching & Learning

All students receive high-quality instruction in every classroom, and students are challenged to reach their full potential.
Metro Schools' instructional framework has three guiding principles: equitable instruction, ambitious instruction, and instruction integrated with Positive Schools Supports.
All schools use one of three Tier 1 approaches to Positive Schools Supports: Foundations, Restorative Practices, or Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS).

Tier 2 - Specialized Supports

The foundational supports that all students receive may not be enough to meet some students' needs.
For those who need additional instruction in an area of academics or positive skills, a second tier of instruction is provided during the school day.
This usually takes place in small groups and may occur during Personalized Learning Time or throughout the school day.