Aligning School Programs Within a Multi-Tiered Framework

The excitement and fresh energy of a new school year can be tempered by the seemingly endless list of tasks to be completed. There are new staff to welcome, teams to form, and records to update. When the immediate needs are handled, the first quarter is a good time for examining and assessing the many programs and initiatives that fall under a school district or building’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The purpose of an audit of this type is to identify potential gaps in social, emotional and behavioral services (e.g. social emotional learning, bullying prevention, trauma-sensitive practices) and to reveal strengths and needs. 

Dr. Kent McIntosh, University of Oregon professor and researcher, has stated that “one of the major variables affecting sustained implementation of effective practices is the introduction of new initiatives that either (a) compete with resources needed for sustained implementation or (b) contradict existing initiatives.” Before adopting a new program, initiatives already in place should be carefully examined to avoid overlapping efforts in terms of teaming, professional development and funding. Considerations for each program include:

• Is it achieving its intended goal?
• Who is providing leadership for the program?
• Who is the target population?
• What resources are needed to implement?
• What are associated challenges and strengths?

The intended outcome of this exercise is to establish a more efficient and effective system that will meet the needs of all students. Additional resources and a fact sheet can be found at this site and in this webinar (passcode: &2RUEg=!) presented recently by Kelly Perales, co-director of Midwest PBIS Network. If you are interested in auditing and aligning initiatives in your building or district, the Student Wellness Dept. can help. Please contact Kristine Kozlowski at [email protected].