Apply by May 15th for grant-funded help with implementing MTSS.
Are you looking to proactively create and integrate systems in your district and schools? Applications are now open to get grant-funded help with the Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) through your local ESD 123 and OSPI.
MTSS is about creating a systematic approach to helping improve student outcomes. Rather than using time and resources to develop a support plan individually for each classroom or student, MTSS is about strategically setting up and keeping in place support systems that are readily recognizable and replicable. It is designed to take the burden off teachers by creating a long-term support framework and replacing guesswork with a data-driven approach.
There are several fundamental features to MTSS. MTSS acts to coordinate and align existing initiatives. A good analogy is that it is the plate that holds all the items; it isn’t an additional item. MTSS isn’t the domain of one expert; instead, it is a sustainable team effort created to fit each district’s needs and existing initiatives. It is about setting up a system to address known issues around student outcomes so that support is available and strategic rather than reactive.
How do you know if MTSS is suitable for your district? Indicators include a high referral rate for Special Education support, situations where approaches seem to be constantly changing, or where there is an inconsistent approach to determining the level and amount of support to give students, as well as when to transition students away from supports they no longer need. MTSS can also help remove siloes of support, interconnecting them for efficiency.
State funding for this program began two years ago and is already seeing a high level of engagement. A systematic approach gives everyone security, knowing there are consistent support systems being put in place with a common language around them.
Kelly Bolson, your Regional MTSS Implementation Coordinator, is prepared to meet each district’s needs, whether you are a large or small district. After completing the application, Kelly will contact you for an initial interview to learn your vision. Over a three-year period, she can help your team create self-sustainable systems beginning at the district level and working toward building-level systems. For more information, follow the links below, or reach out to Kelly directly at
[email protected] or (509) 547-8441.
Learn more:
On the ESD 123 Website
On the OSPI Website