Skip To Main Content

Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) in Alexander County Schools

ACS will function as a professional learning community where the individual needs of students will be established through a systematic analysis of data and implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS).  Through the MTSS model, students will be assessed and grouped for prescriptive interventions.  Student progress will be constantly monitored, and instruction will be resposive to student learning.  

A Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) is a proactive, evidence-based framework for integrating academic, behavioral, and social-emotional instruction to maximize student growth. Key components, often highlighted by state Departments of Public Instruction (DPI), include universal screening, progress monitoring, multi-level prevention systems, and data-based decision-making. 

Core Components of MTSS (DPI Frameworks)

  • Leadership and Infrastructure: Establishing a culture of collective responsibility and capacity-building among staff to support all learners.
  • Data-Based Problem-Solving: Using data to identify student needs, inform instruction, and evaluate intervention effectiveness.
  • Multi-Level Prevention System: A three-tiered system providing increasing intensity of support:
    • Tier 1: High-quality, evidence-based, core instruction for all students (approx. 80-85%).
    • Tier 2: Targeted interventions for students needing extra support (approx. 10-15%).
    • Tier 3: Intensive, individualized supports for students with the highest need (approx. 3-5%).
  • Universal Screening: Regular, consistent assessment to identify students at risk.
  • Progress Monitoring: Frequent assessment to determine if interventions are effective.
  • Family and Community Partnerships: Engaging families to strengthen the support system for the whole child. 

NC DPI emphasizes integrating academic, behavior, and social-emotional needs to support the whole child.