Multi-level System of Support

Historically, school reform efforts emphasized collaboration, high-quality instruction, and balanced assessment. RtI provides a systematic approach that integrates these three essential elements within a multi-level system of support to maximize student achievement.

A multi-level system of support is the practice of systematically providing differing levels of intensity of supports (interventions/additional challenges, collaborative structures, monitoring of student progress) based upon student responsiveness to instruction and intervention. Within an RtI system, schools:

• Use data to identify students at risk for poor learning outcomes or in need of increased challenge
• Monitor student progress
• Intervene based on student need
• Adjust the intensity and nature of interventions or challenges depending on a student’s responsiveness

Factors, such as effective leadership, meaningful family and community involvement and data-based decision-making enhance a multi-level system of support.