Professional Learning Module: Building the Framework – Understanding the Fundamentals of a Multi-Tiered System of Support

Description

MTSS Foundations Learning Module

Building a Shared Understanding of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support for All Educators

This comprehensive MTSS Foundations Learning Module is designed to equip educators at all levels—central office staff, school leaders, instructional coaches, and classroom teachers—with a clear and practical understanding of the core principles, structures, and purpose of a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). Whether you’re launching MTSS in your district, reintroducing it with fresh urgency, or aligning your team around a common vision, this resource provides everything you need to facilitate meaningful learning, reflection, and planning.

Developed with flexibility and usability in mind, this ready-to-implement module includes customizable content, turnkey presentation slides, engaging discussion prompts, interactive activities, and facilitator guides. It encourages participants to explore MTSS not just as a compliance framework, but as a proactive, equity-focused approach to meeting the diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of all students.

Learning Goals and Outcomes:

• Develop a Foundational Understanding of MTSS
  
  Participants will explore what MTSS is, why it matters, and how it functions as a systems-level approach to ensure that every student receives the right support at the right time.

• Explore the Core Components of MTSS
  
  The module breaks down the essential elements of MTSS, including high-quality Tier 1 instruction, data-based decision-making, universal screening, progress monitoring, tiered interventions, and team-based problem solving.

• Understand Roles and Responsibilities Across the System
  
  Participants will reflect on the unique and shared responsibilities of classroom teachers, support staff, school leaders, and district teams in the successful implementation of MTSS.

• Engage in Collaborative Discussion and Application
  
  Through structured group activities, scenarios, and discussion questions, teams will have opportunities to make connections between the MTSS framework and their current practices, identifying strengths and areas for growth.

• Lay the Groundwork for System-Wide Alignment
  
  The module serves as a launching point for deeper implementation planning, encouraging schools and districts to align resources, structures, and practices across all levels of the system.

What’s Included:

• Facilitator Guide with step-by-step instructions and suggested pacing

• Customizable Slide Deck to deliver a professional, cohesive presentation

• Engaging Activities to support adult learning, reflection, and collaboration

• Discussion Prompts to spark dialogue and deeper thinking

• Participant Handouts for notes, group work, and follow-up

• Editable Templates for team reflection and action planning

Who Should Use This Module:

• District Leaders and MTSS Coordinators looking to introduce or reinforce a shared MTSS vision

• School Administrators who want to engage staff in foundational learning before moving into site-specific planning

• Instructional Coaches and Teacher Leaders preparing to support implementation through coaching or PD

• Professional Learning Communities interested in studying MTSS together and improving their response to student needs

Why This Module Matters:

Successful MTSS implementation begins with a shared understanding. When every educator—from the classroom to the central office—has clarity about the purpose and practice of MTSS, systems become more aligned, student supports become more targeted, and outcomes improve for all learners. This module provides the tools, structure, and flexibility to start that conversation and lay the foundation for long-term, sustainable success.