MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) is a framework schools use to make sure every student gets the right support at the right time. It’s not just about academics—it also includes behavior, social-emotional skills, and overall student success. We are proud of the work the MTSS team has put in over the past two years at DPS.
On day one of this school year, we hosted EXPECTATION STATIONS with our students, where they were led through all areas of our school and shared what the expectations were for the year. Our theme for the year is to "Write Your Own Narrative" as this school year will be whatever the students (and staff) want it to be - an outstanding year, or one of excuses and complaints. The staff set goals for themselves and their students in the first days, and we are already implementing our tracking systems for data in terms of academics and behavior.
What does all of this mean to you? We created guidelines within academics to create intervention groups, implementing WIN (What I Need) time in the elementary through ninth grade and are looking at the data consistently. In terms of behavior, we are using two specific tools to increase data/reporting:
RESPONSE FLOW CHART for Unexpected Behaviors
LAIR PROBLEM SOLVING MODEL for Data Tracking, which stands for Locate --> Analyze --> Implement --> Reflect
We will enter these referrals into our system, using the data to determine where the unexpected behavior is mostly happening, when and hopefully why, so that as a team, we can help to decrease the number of office referrals and discipline.
Below is what you can expect in terms of tiered support:
Tier 1 – Universal Supports
What all students receive every day.
High-quality instruction, clear expectations, and proactive behavior supports.
Example: teaching school-wide rules, modeling positive behavior, using consistent routines.
Tier 2 – Targeted Supports
What some students need in addition to Tier 1.
Small-group interventions, check-ins, or extra practice.
Example: a student struggling with following directions joins a social skills group.
Tier 3 – Intensive Supports
What a few students need for more significant challenges.
Individualized interventions and one-on-one support.
Example: a personalized behavior plan, counseling, or academic tutoring.
The process is data-driven: teachers and teams regularly review student progress to adjust supports quickly.
Please reach out to any of our MTSS team members if you have questions. We are looking for clear, consistent communication with parents, and another layer of support provided by DPS.