Overview of the Tiered Interventions Using Evidence-Based Research (TIER) Initiative

MTSS

Share

This article presents an overview of Tiered Interventions Using Evidence-Based Research (TIER); an initiative funded by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to provide guidance and information about the Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. 

What is TIER?

TIER was created by TEA to increase local education agency (LEA) and education service center (ESC) capacity to develop and implement an effective, integrated, comprehensive MTSS framework for intervention that is grounded in differentiated instruction and aligns with the systems that are fundamental for all students’ academic, behavioral, mental health and wellness. This article provides information about TIER training and resources for districts to develop and implement an MTSS framework. 

What is the goal of TIER?

TIER equips educators and stakeholders with knowledge and materials to implement MTSS effectively in every Texas school. The goal is to ensure all students receive the support they need through data-informed, tiered interventions. 

Multi-Tiered Systems

An integrated MTSS approach encompasses various other systems, such as response to intervention (RTI), positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) for supporting school mental health (SMH), and other supports for early intervention and prevention. When MTSS is implemented effectively, it can provide students with the supports needed to progress towards academic and non-academic goals. 

MTSS Framework and Core Concepts

MTSS is a framework designed to support the whole child by integrating academic, behavioral, and mental health services. It emphasizes equitable access to interventions based on student needs.

MTSS Model

The model includes Tier 1 universal instruction and supports, Tier 2 targeted interventions, and Tier 3 individualized, intensive interventions. MTSS supports prevention for all students and intervention for students experiencing academic and non-academic difficulties.

Three-Tiered Model

Call to Action for the Texas Educator

  • Subscribe to receive email updates and stay connected. Follow MTSS as a topic of interest on TSS for training opportunities and to see when new resources are added.  
  • Review the following informational handouts to gain a better understanding of the MTSS framework and its three-tiered model.

TIER Training

TIER resources include content organized into 9 broad topics of MTSS, referred to as modules or collections (represented in the Pathways Map by the colored boxes). Within each of these modules, there are individual learning pathways, or specific trainings, (represented by the white boxes) that have been or are currently in development to provide more in-depth information. Content is regularly updated, and some topics may not yet be available for training.

The Pathways Map features all of the training available or in development for TIER.

Pathways Map

Pathways Map

View interactive map

View the interactive map with active hyperlinks. Within the interactive map, you will find hyperlinks to learn more about each training. Topics that are still in development will not have a link.

TIER Resources

In addition to training, the TIER initiative has resources to support MTSS implementation. These resources include reference guides for modules, tools, inventories, logs, checklists, and other documents to steer MTSS in the right direction. Topics for these include intervention, explicit instruction, progress monitoring tools, PBIS, co-teaching, and effective instruction.

How Do Educators Access TIER Training?

There are three ways to participate in TIER training:  

  1. Attend a face-to-face training delivered by a certified TIER trainer within your ESC or district  
  2. Enroll in an on-demand, self-paced online course (select trainings available through TSS)
  3. Become a TIER certified trainer by completing certification requirements during a training of trainers session (open to Texas district or ESC staff responsible for MTSS training or implementation support  in their district/region) 

Find a TIER certified trainer in your region for face-to-face trainings

There are certified TIER Trainers at every regional ESC who offer training and support to educators in their region. Review the Statewide Contact Information to find a certified trainer in your region.  

Enroll in TIER Online Courses

Select TIER online courses are available through the TEA Learn online platform. The content of TIER online courses mirrors the content of face-to-face pathways while providing additional interactivity and engagement.  Continuing professional education (CPE) hours can be earned by course completion. Courses are:  

  • Free
  • Self-paced
  • Completed in any order 

Become a Certified Trainer in your Region or District/ Charter

Are you responsible for providing professional learning related to MTSS in your district or region? Become a TIER Certified Trainer.  

Educators can become certified TIER trainers by completing training-of-trainer sessions passing content assessments, and submitting artifacts (i.e., evidence of learning in response to specific questions or prompts). Once certified, trainers receive access to all training materials and resources needed to facilitate training, opportunities to participate with other TIER trainers through a Community of Practice, and technical assistance support from the TIER team.