Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

What is MTSS?

Many schools use a framework of interventions and supports designed to address behavioral and/or academic challenges.  This framework, known as MTSS, helps schools to identify struggling students early so that they may receive assistance quickly. 

Defining MTSS
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a framework that helps educators provide academic and behavioral strategies for students with various needs. MTSS grew out of the integration of two other intervention-based frameworks: Response to Intervention and PBIS.

As part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) updated by Congress in 2004, the Response to Intervention model of assessment originally sought to identify students who would benefit from more intensive supports. From these beginnings as a tool to help improve educational outcomes for students in special education, MTSS has grown to encompass all students at every level.