A Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) is a data-driven, problem-solving framework to improve outcomes for all students. MTSS relies on a continuum of evidence-based practices matched to student needs. PBIS is an example of MTSS centered on social behavior.

Three Tiers of Support

MTSS emerged as a framework from the work conducted in public health emphasizing three tiers of prevention. Schools apply this model as a way to align to academic, behavioral, social, and emotional supports to improve education for all students. It is important to remember these tiers refer to levels of support students receive, not to students themselves. Students receive Tier 2 supports, they are not Tier 2 students.

Key Components at Every Tier

Each tier has its own set of systems and practices, but some key components appear across every level. Each of these features needs to be present in order for MTSS to be implemented with fidelity.

•      Practices are based on evidence to be effective in a similar context with similar populations.
•      Practices are organized along a tiered continuum beginning with strong universal supports followed by intensified interventions matched to student needs.
•      Data are collected and used to screen, monitor, and assess student progress.
•      Resources are allocated to ensure systems and practices are implemented with fidelity over time.

• Tier 1 at PBIS.org
• ESC Training Introduction Module 4-14-19 (Power Point) 
• Tier 1 Scale Up Action Plan 
• TFI Action Plan 
• Data Based Decisions (Section 6: Discouraging inappropriate behaviors)
• School Supports
  • The Cleveland Orchestra- Mindful Music Moments (Mindful Music Moments is an easy to use, web-based program that combines classical music with mindfulness prompts delivered over the morning announcements in schools. It’s designed to reduce stress and anxiety, increase exposure to classical music, and start each school day with a period of calm and focus for the entire school community.)
  • Every Moment Counts 
    • Comfortable Cafeteria (News Article) 
    • Comfortable Cafeteria Curriculum 
    • Refreshing Recess Curriculum 
• Preschool PBIS Resources 
• Classroom Supports
  • Moments for Mental Health 
             
  • Tier 1 Universal Strategies 
  • Classroom Routine Support Guide 

             

  • Supporting and Responding to Behavior: Evidence-Based Classroom Strategies for Teachers 
  • Classroom PBIS 

• Tier 2 at PBIS.org
  • Ohio PBIS Tier 2 Workbook
  • Tier 2 Scale Up Action Plan
  • Check In Check Out
  • Tier 2 Handbook/Tier 2 Interventions Reference Guide (Example)
  • Social Skills Curriculum (Handout)
  • Behavioral Screening Tier 2 and 3
  • Fidelity Checklists

• Tier 2 Training Video Supports:

  • SST video: Integrating Tier 2 Practices Within an MTSS/PBIS Framework

    • Participants will identify key features of Tier 2 practices and learn how behavioral supports fit within the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports and Multi-tiered Systems of Support framework. Tier 2 interventions highlighted will include the following: Check-in/Check-out,  Social Skills Programs and Zones of Regulation.  Participants will become familiar with OCALI and ODE resources. The presentation will also feature the journeys by several districts through the Tier 2 process. Finally,  participants will have the opportunity to begin to develop their own system of behavioral supports. 

  • Missouri video: https://pbismissouri.org/tier-2-courses/

    • Self paced video modules featuring Tier 2 components                                                                 

• Tier 3 at PBIS.org
  • Ohio Center for Autism and Low incidence
  • OCALI- Addressing Challenging Behavior Video Series
  • OSEP- Dear Colleague Letter on Supporting Behavior of Students with Disabilities
  • American Institute of Research- FBA to BIP 
• Zones of Regulation/Sensory: A Framework designed to teach self-regulation and emotional control.
• Check and Connect: Check and Connect is the only dropout prevention intervention listed on the IES What Works Clearinghouse found to have positive effects on staying in school.

SST4 Video - Check and Connect  

12 students who show warning signs of disengagement with school and who are at risk of dropping out. Students are referred to Check & Connect when they show warning signs of disengaging from school, such as poor attendance, behavioral issues, and/or low grades. The "Check" component refers to the process where mentors systematically monitor student performance variables (e.g., absences, tardies, behavioral referrals, grades), while the "Connect" component refers to mentors providing personalized, timely interventions to help students solve problems, build skills, and enhance competence. See more about the Components and Elements of Check & Connect.  

Check and Connect Outcomes:

• decrease in truancy, tardies, behavior referrals, and dropout rates;

• increase in attendance, persistence in school, credits accrued, and school completion; and

• impact on literacy

• Integrated Systems Framework: School & Community Partnerships - Video
           Presented at the Ohio School Safety Summit on October 7, 2021

  • Participants will identify primary components of a PBIS framework and examine ways that school and community partnerships work together to support mental health needs. Tools related to the Integrated Systems Framework and wraparound supports will be shared.  You will determine the strength of your behavioral support systems and community partnership supports. It is critical to integrate what the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us. Communities can be successful in supporting the behavioral needs of students and family by working together using Ohio's Whole Child Framework.