Refresh and Restart
At this time in the year, multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) school and district teams meet to review schoolwide/districtwide data and make data-based decisions for MTSS implementation. As the new year approaches, teams reflect, assess and reset the focus.
The Data Analysis Protocol four-step problem solving model provides a structure to effectively review, analyze and plan. Effective data analysis is an ongoing process that requires collaboration, regular monitoring and adjustments as needed.
Consider the following suggestions for KyMTSS teams as they prepare for the reopening in January 2024.
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Review data: Take time to review data from the first semester to prioritize and plan instruction, intervention and support for universal, targeted and intensive support.
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Consider multiple levels of data: When reviewing and analyzing data, consider various levels. This can include district-level, school-level, grade-level and content area, as well as individual student data. By examining data across these different levels, MTSS teams can identify patterns, trends and areas of improvement to inform decision making and action planning.
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Prioritize and plan instruction: Review the data to identify areas of strength and areas for growth. Use this information to prioritize and plan instruction, ensuring that it is tailored to meet the specific needs of each student.
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Revisit the PBIS Framework: Help students transition back to school routines by providing a refresher regarding the rules, routines and expectations. Provide clear communication and reminders to support the established academic and behavioral expectations. Rebuild connections and re-establish a positive greeting when welcoming students back into the learning space. If your school does not have a PBIS system, now is the time for the team to plan for the 2024-2025 school year.
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Collaborate with families and caregivers: Maximize family and community partnerships by communicating with families and caregivers to support the return from break. Share strategies to reinforce learning and behavior expectations.
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Assess and offer professional learning: Provide professional learning opportunities to address any specific challenges or on-going support.
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Celebrate successes: Recognize and celebrate individual and collective success to boost morale, motivate and reinforce the importance of the collaborative problem solving efforts.
Two Key KyMTSS Implementation Resources
American Institute for Research Tiered Delivery Model Guidance and Infographics
PBIS Resources
Kentucky Teacher Success Spotlights
In October, the Kentucky Department of Education's Kentucky Teacher featured success stories from Franklin County, Letcher County, Clinton County and Daviess County. Each district shared its progress with MTSS implementation.
The 2023 spotlights concluded with the MTSS implementation story in Daviess County. In the initial year, leaders focused on training staff on a foundational understanding of MTSS in schools and classrooms. The second year involved implementing and experimenting with MTSS tactics, though challenges arose in fitting new initiatives into existing structures.
By the third year, a breakthrough occurred as teachers embraced ownership, collaboration and data utilization, fostering a comprehensive view of each student. The emphasis shifted to refining understanding and ensuring consistency in MTSS application.
The district's goals included improvements in mental health, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, and co-teaching, with MTSS serving as the pivotal element facilitating integration. As the district progresses into its third year with MTSS, there is a growing focus on consistent implementation, data analysis and the vital role of teachers as primary interventionists, emphasizing the need for informed decision making.
The success stories series resumes in early 2024. Please share your school or district MTSS Success Story for consideration for an upcoming article.
Kentucky Regional Educational Cooperatives
The eight regional educational cooperatives offer MTSS professional learning and technical assistance. For more information regarding cooperative technical assistance, please contact the MTSS point of contact for your region.
KyMTSS Newsletter Archive
Did you miss the last KyMTSS Newsletter? You can access all previous editions of the newsletter on the KyMTSS Newsletter Archive webpage.
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