RTI and I&RS

Response to Intervention (RTI)

The Kinnelon School District utilizes a multi-tier approach to efficiently differentiate instruction for all students. Response to Intervention (RTI), is a data- driven, systematic approach to instruction that uses three tiers of research-based strategies and interventions to optimize student growth.

The model incorporates increasing intensities of instruction offering specific, research-based interventions matched to student needs who demonstrate needs in the following areas; i.e. academic, behavioral, social, and/or emotion. In RTI, a student who is struggling will receive additional instructional support by matching instruction to a student's individual needs. RTI focuses on the early prevention of academic difficulty, particularly in the areas of reading and math, by ensuring appropriate instruction, data collection, and monitoring of students' progress.

Tiers of Support

Tiers are flexible in nature. If a student does not respond to interventions at one tier, they can be moved to a different tier with more targeted support. Likewise, students who demonstrate improvement may be gradually transitioned to less intensive interventions or returned to universal supports within the general education setting.

Types of Tiers

Tier 1: Core Instruction

All students receive Tier I interventions, also known as “Best Practices” during their core instructional time with their classroom teacher(s). Tier I instruction is typically successful with 80-90% of the population. When an area of focus is identified by the classroom teacher, they will immediately begin implementing Tier 1 Interventions, which will be tracked for a period of 6 weeks. If the student continues to have difficulties, then the student will be referred to the I&RS committee and an Action Plan will be developed.

Tier 2: Targeted Small Group Intervention

Approximately 10-15% of students will need supplemental instruction at a Tier 2 level of support to become proficient. Tier 2 interventions are implemented with groups of students demonstrating common skill deficits or social/emotional/behavioral risk characteristics. Tier 2 interventions are provided outside of the general education classroom, for example academic support clubs, supplemental classes throughout the day, etc. Teachers will continue to track the student’s progress over a 6 to 12 week period.

Tier 3: Intensive Individualized Instruction

Examples of Tiered Interventions

Tier 1 Interventions

Tier 2 Interventions

In the Kinnelon School District, Tier 2 Interventions are supports provided to students outside of the classroom which can include:

Before/After school Academic Support Clubs
Guided Study in ELA and Math (small group setting to instruct basic skills)
Guidance counseling - individual, small groups, "lunch bunch"
Math/English "Lab" during lunch periods

Tier 3 Interventions

In the Kinnelon School District, Tier 3 Interventions are supports provided to students that are more intensive. Tier 3 interventions are targeted and specific. This can include:

Specific Reading Instruction to build foundational skills using a multi-sensory approach
Basic Math Fact Instruction to build foundational skills
Use of Digital Educational Programs and applications for diagnostic data and create individualized learning plans in areas of focus
Behavioral intervention plan
Services provided by Related Services Professionals

RTI Process

Steps:

Upon recognition of area of focus, teacher will initiate Tier 1 Interventions within the classroom. Parent(s) will be notified. Interventions will be documented and tracked for 6 weeks.
At the end of 6 weeks, teacher will determine whether the interventions have been successful or not. If yes, continue with classroom based interventions as appropriate. If interventions have not been proven to be successful, then the teacher will initiate a request for an I&RS Meeting in order to develop an Action Plan, outlining the assignment of Tier 2 Interventions.
The I&RS Meeting will include: the referring teacher, building administrator, nurse, child study team, guidance, parent(s). During the meeting, the student's presenting issue will be discussed, classroom interventions implemented, data collection, attendance, etc. During the I&RS meeting, an Action Plan will be created to include the Tier 2 or Tier 3 Interventions that will be implemented as well as goals for the student to achieve.
Follow up on all RTI cases will be conducted every 6 weeks to determine if students require more intensive or less intensive interventions within the tiered system.

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