According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Accelerated Learning Toolkit, 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. In order to develop an effective MTSS Framework, school systems should consider best approaches to: (1) accelerate learning through universal supports, (2) address the core learning landscape through explicit instruction, (3) implement class-wide interventions and supports, (4) systemically address strategic and intensive supports, (5) access additional accelerated learning experiences, (6) ensure considerations are in place for supporting students with significant learning and behavioral needs, and (7) meet the needs of gifted learners.

In order to accelerate learning, Avon Grove School District identified the following goal:

Design a multi-tiered system of scaffolded supports (MTSS) to provide a continuum of evidence-based academic, behavioral, social, and emotional supports aligned with student needs. Each building will develop a plan for accelerating growth using the three strategies below and aligned to the areas of:

• PA standards-aligned, high-quality core instruction
• Universal screening
• Shared ownership
• Data-based decision making
• Responsiveness to intervention
• Family engagement

This goal will be accomplished using the following strategies as each building develops and implements an Accelerating Growth Plan. The plans should seek to strengthen the MTSS Frameworks in each building so that achievement gaps can be closed with an integrated system of support. 

Strategy #1 - Focus on High-Quality Academics

Define the instructional changes needed for the new school year and cultivate a thriving data culture to ensure every student has access to the instructional strategies, resources, and supports necessary to successfully engage with and master grade-level content. 

 

Strategy #2 - Foster Supportive Learning Environments

Place equitable, trauma-informed principles at the core of planning to create a safe and inclusive space for learning, form positive and supportive relationships, and support students and staff as they mentally and socially recover from the previous year.

Strategy #3 - Establish Healthy Systems Conditions

Engage stakeholders across your education community to fully understand the needs of your system and respond with staffing, technology, scheduling, and continuous improvement processes that create the conditions for acceleration of learning.

 

Avon Grove School District’s MTSS Framework