KyMTSS Newsletter - December 9 , 2021

Kentucky’s framework for a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) promotes the academic proficiency, positive behavior and social-emotional competencies of all students.

Core elements – such as collaborative problem-solving teams at all levels of system, data-based decision making using multiple sources of data gathered through a comprehensive screening and assessment system, a continuum of instruction and supports based on identified needs and the selection of evidence-based practices – can be built upon to promote the emotional well-being of staff. 

Similar to using data at Tier 1 to identify and address student needs, universal data also can guide teams to identify staff needs and develop systems of support. Existing data sources that may be useful include staff perception of school climate, staff attendance rates and focus group information that can provide insight into staff satisfaction and overall impact from the stress of their work. 

Applying the logic of MTSS, school and district leadership teams might begin with: 

• Examining current efforts to support staff wellness; 
• Organizing current efforts within the multi-tiered framework; 
• Organizing fiscal resources to prioritize staff health and well-being; and 
• Designing a plan to track the impact of staff wellness efforts (e.g., staff turnover, staff attendance, climate survey data). 

The 2020 Impact Kentucky Working Conditions Survey indicated that the majority of educators in Kentucky are concerned about their own well-being and the well-being of their colleagues as a result of their work. The Educator Well-being in Kentucky brief provides a deeper dive into these two survey questions to provide context about the current state of educator emotional well-being in Kentucky, as well as an interactive map of the data in Kentucky. The School Climate and Educator Well-being in Kentucky brief offers key findings about the link between school climate and educator well-being in Kentucky as well as recommendations to consider. 

District and school teams are encouraged to explore their individual survey results. The next administration of the survey, open through Dec. 17, includes more questions related to adult well-being, with results available in early 2022. 

A recent brief about the structural supports to promote teacher well-being offers strategies for leaders to consider as part of a comprehensive approach to creating policies and conditions to combat educator burnout. Strategies include:

• Creating a culture of mutual trust, respect and open communication among teachers and school leaders. The compassion resilience toolkit is a free, user-friendly resource that can help facilitate this work; 
• Celebrating incremental progress in meaningful work; 
• Providing consistent structures, policies, procedures and expectations for teachers;  

• Encouraging teacher involvement in the design and implementation of learning opportunities;  
• Protecting teachers’ time and prioritizing teacher learning and professional growth; and
• Offering trauma-informed strategies, mindfulness supports and institutionalizing wellness routines throughout the school day to promote positive self-care.  

While many factors impact educator well-being, one tangible influence is the physical environment. In collaboration with the Kentucky Educational Cooperatives, the Kentucky Department of Education launched the first statewide Educator Wellness Space Student Design Challenge in September 2021. This statewide initiative empowers students to engage in a multi-disciplinary project-based learning opportunity that will support teachers’ well-being and promote a positive and healthy school climate and culture by creating an educator wellness space (or spaces) in their school. Find out more about the proposal criteria and application process by contacting your local educational cooperative.