Taking Action

The leadership actions that need to take place in the first year of assuming responsibility for implementing a school’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is to fully train all personnel in their roles. For example, the teacher needs to be trained in planning and managing the Response to Intervention (RTI) process in the classroom so that all students will receive support at specific tiers according to their level of need. A clear knowledge of the procedures for implementing an intervention system that is fluid, flexible, and focused on the needs of each student is needed instead of a rigid protocol driven program (Buffum, Mattos, & Weber, 2012). All school personnel must also be trained in documenting and discussing efforts such as interventions, program effectiveness, parent involvement, and observations. This will aid in the collaborative process.

After the training is in place and ongoing, collaboration and planning for results can begin. According to the RTI Implementation Rubric developed by the State of Colorado (n.d.), school leadership teams must discuss and plan the implementation process. This includes identifying the tools that will be used for the implementation process and program monitoring. A good example of the power of collaboration was demonstrated by a Problem Solving Team (PST) member who made a suggestion for supporting the student’s independent functioning goals by having him maintain a folder to be checked and signed by each of his teachers (Laureate Education, Inc., 2012). The Professional Learning Communities (PLC) model is needed to ensure that the system of supports is proactive and effective. The multi-disciplinary team collaborates to ensure that the plan is being carried out and students are receiving the individualized support that they each need (Knowledge Delivery Systems (2011).

Buffum, A., Mattos, M., Weber, C. (2012). Simplifying response to intervention: Four essential guiding principles. Bloomington, In: Solution Tree Press.

Knowledge Delivery Systems (Producer). (2011). Pyramid response to intervention: How to respond when kids don’t learn. Available from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApzX15USq2w

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2012). RTI meeting: High school. Baltimore, MD