Core Instruction
What is "Core Support"?
Core support (sometimes referred to as Tier I) includes general academic, behavioral, and social-emotional instruction and support designed and differentiated for all students. Core academic instruction should be aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study (NCSCOS). Core behavioral and social-emotional instruction should be aligned with locally developed expectations.
The delivery of instruction at this level should include evidence based, whole group and small group strategies, as well as differentiated instruction based on the learners in the group and the expertise of the teacher.
Even though academic standards have been established by the state and behavioral expectations may be developed by a district, Core instruction will most likely vary in intensity from school to school, even within a district. This is due to the fact that Core instruction is based on local needs. Some schools may require more time and focus in Core to ensure all students meet and/or exceed state proficiency levels and locally developed behavioral and social-emotional expectations.
In an effective Core (Tier I), 80% of students meet and/or exceed state and locally developed standards with Core instruction alone (i.e., with no additional supports). If more than 20% of students need additional support, the effectiveness of Core should be examined and the School Leadership Team should evaluate all data using a structured problem solving model to determine any needed changes.
Source: NC MTSS Implementation Guide, Essential Elements of Core