Academic Supports

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support’s comprehensive framework includes meeting each student’s academic, behavior and social-emotional needs. Within this system, students are placed on Tier 1, 2 or 3 based on their individual needs. As the Tier level increases from 1 to 3, the level of support provided progresses from classroom-wide support to targeted and intensive interventions.

Tier 1: Universal Supports

This is a systematic approach for supporting all students schoolwide. Universal intervention occurs in the general education classroom and is designed for all students to participate. All students receive high quality, core academic  instruction and supports. Teachers use various teaching strategies within the core curriculum to address all students’ educational needs. 

Tier 1 universal supports may include:

• High quality teaching and supports for academics

• Researched-based  programs and best practices

• Flexible grouping and differentiation 

• Integrated instruction and intervention that is designed to meet the needs of all students

Tier 2: Targeted Intervention

This support is designed for students experiencing difficulty academically in the classroom. These supports are generally provided in small groups and include additional opportunities for students to practice the essential academic skills necessary for core instruction or strategies for enrichment. Tier 2 instruction is timely and coordinated with Tier 1 instruction.

Tier 2 Targeted Interventions and Supports may include:

• Working with smaller groups of students who share the same instructional need

• Implementing evidence-based and culturally responsive teaching for the needs of the students

• Ensuring progress monitoring data is collected more frequently and monitored in a timely manner