Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a comprehensive framework providing differentiated academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support to students at increasing levels of intensity based on individual needs.
What is MTSS?
MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) is a data-driven framework designed to identify struggling learners early and provide targeted interventions at increasing intensity levels. Originally developed for schools, the principles apply equally well to homeschool settings. MTSS evolved from RTI (Response to Intervention) but expands beyond academics to include behavioral and social-emotional support. Think of MTSS as a prevention system: rather than waiting until students fail, it provides systematic support at the first signs of struggle. About 80% of students succeed with universal (Tier 1) support, while 15-20% need targeted (Tier 2) interventions, and roughly 5% require intensive (Tier 3) individualized support.
Key Takeaways
- Three tiers provide increasing intensity: universal, targeted, and intensive support
- MTSS evolved from RTI but includes behavioral and social-emotional components
- About 80% of students succeed with Tier 1; 5% need Tier 3 intensive intervention
- Regular progress monitoring guides decisions about adjusting support levels
- MTSS is not special education but may help identify students needing evaluation
The Three Tiers Explained
Tier 1 (Universal Support): All students receive high-quality core instruction. About 80% of learners meet their needs through Tier 1 alone, which emphasizes prevention and early skill development. In homeschool, this means your standard curriculum and teaching approach. Tier 2 (Targeted Intervention): Students not responding adequately receive small-group, evidence-based interventions targeting specific skill gaps. This typically means 2-5 additional sessions weekly while continuing general instruction—perhaps adding a phonics program for a struggling reader. Tier 3 (Intensive Intervention): For the 5% who continue struggling despite Tier 2 support, individualized, specialized interventions with frequent progress monitoring. This might involve outside specialists, therapeutic services, or significantly modified approaches.
MTSS vs. IEP vs. 504 Plan
Applying MTSS Principles at Home
Screen early: Use diagnostic assessments to identify learning gaps in reading, math, or other areas. Provide tiered support: Start with quality instruction, add targeted supplemental programs if needed, then intensify for persistent gaps. Monitor progress frequently: Track improvement weekly or bi-weekly through quizzes, observations, or curriculum-based measures. Use data for decisions: If interventions aren't working after reasonable time, adjust approach or increase intensity. Focus on prevention: Early identification prevents wider skill gaps later. For homeschoolers, MTSS provides a practical framework for supporting children with learning challenges without formal school infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
MTSS offers homeschool families an evidence-based framework for supporting struggling learners systematically. Rather than waiting until problems become severe, the tiered approach intervenes early and adjusts intensity based on response. This doesn't replace formal evaluation if you suspect a learning disability—MTSS should never delay needed services. But for families navigating how to support diverse learners, the structure of screening, targeted intervention, and progress monitoring provides practical guidance. The key insight: intervene early, monitor progress, and adjust support based on what the data shows.
