In
the past few years, the Response to Intervention and Instruction (RTII)
name has been replaced by the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
in Pennsylvania public schools. This happened for several reasons, one
of which is that simply put – change happens as we move forward in
education. This new acronym demonstrates more fully how schools are
helping students. The RTII
framework focused on how school districts would intervene and help
students, particularly through instruction. The new MTSS name change
indicates this new framework offers multiple tiered systems of support
for students. This includes academic and behavioral supports to meet
all the needs of our learners.
The
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (formerly RTII) allows teachers and
other professional staff including reading specialists, special
education teachers, and ESL teachers to support students in academic
areas of reading. This tiered model benefits struggling, on-level, and
advanced learners to reach their highest potential.
Supporting
our students hasn’t changed, but the way in which we can identify,
instruct, monitor, and assess learning has improved. MTSS (formerly
RTII) enables our dedicated teaching staff to do their best for ALL students every day!
For parents/guardians, more information about MTSS (formerly RTII):
Pattan – MTSS Overview
RTI Network – Parents and Families
Understood.Org – A website for Parents of Children with Learning Disabilities
**The Child Study Team and Special Education process can occur throughout any of the 3 tiers.