MTSS and ZONES

I now have ZONES all fully functioning in my classroom.  So this is where the magic really happens in ZONES Math.  ZONES Math gives you the amazing opportunity use student data to truly help students' learning.  
Enter the MTSS Model - A Multi-Tiered System of Support.  If you are not familiar with this model, each state has it's own "interpretation" of this.  I think this brochure (even though it is from Florida) is a really great explanation of the model.  Check it out here.  They defines this educational model as:

 "using data-based problem-solving to integrate academic and behavioral
instruction and intervention. The integrated instruction and intervention is delivered to students in varying intensities (multiple tiers) based on student need. “Need-driven” decision-making seeks to ensure that district resources reach the appropriate students (schools) at the appropriate levels to accelerate the performance of ALL students to achieve and/or exceed proficiency.

This model is an amazing integration of the best practices used in the core curriculum, general education classroom (common curriculum, cooperative learning strategies, sheltering and scaffolding based on student need), and the interventions necessary to meet all students' needs.  

MTSS

ZONES Math

Here is a side-by-side graphic of each model.  Below I will show you how ZONES Math fits right into the MTSS model.

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Tier 1 Instruction - Universal Level

This is the instruction that ALL students are receiving in your classroom instruction.  Hopefully your district offers a solid, research-based curriculum that you can teach to all students.  This core instruction could look differently between schools or districts as it should meet the needs of the student demographics of that district.  In ZONES this looks like your whole group lesson and the wrap up.  This instruction is based on student need but is given to all students in your classroom. 

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Tier II Instruction - Targeted Level

Tier 2 instruction is individualized supports for underachieving students.  It includes standards based curriculum but also includes supplemental instruction or remediation.  This is the instruction that  only some of the students will be receiving and is in addition to the Tier I instruction. This instruction is more intense and has a more narrow focus compared to the Tier I instruction.  This instruction can be given by classroom teachers, remedial teachers, or at home, and the setting can vary.  In ZONES Math this will be the ZONES work that you are assigning to the students if you are differentiating their assignments based on need.  This is a integral component of ZONES Math when pulling students to work in small groups for remediation and additional supports.  Small groups are flexible, data driven and individualized to meet student need.

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Tier III Instruction - Intensive Level

This instruction is the most intense instruction.  It is individualized and targeted on the students with significant underachievement.  Only a few students should receive this level of intervention and it is the most intense level that a school can provide.  The hope is that a student receiving Tier III instruction will be able to master the same content as the majority of the students who were able to master it with Tier I instruction.    Even though a traditional Tier III intervention would be given individually outside of the classroom setting, ZONES Math does offer a Tier III component.  Certain small groups that have intense focus on a certain content area would be considered Tier III.  Also , the one on one conferencing time that ZONES Math allows could be viewed as Tier III support.

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Why does this matter?

*  The MTSS model is a requirement.  If your school district has a plan in place to support this model - fantastic!  However, not all schools have something like this in place.  If you implement ZONES Math however, you will be able to comply with this requirement right in your classroom.
*  It meets student need.  Requirement or not, it is best for the students and their learning to individualize their learning as much as possible.
*  You have the data - this is great to have for teacher evaluation purposes.  Need to prove that you are teaching in an effective way?  Need to prove you are integrating subject areas?  Need to prove that you are differentiating?  Need to open ended questioning?  etc., etc. etc.  ZONES has you covered
*  You have the data - I know I just said that - However this specifically for student need.  When you are faced with a student support meeting and need to show what interventions you have tried you have the evidence.  You can show your Tier I teaching and can prove if it was effective.  you can show your Tier II intervention and can prove with data if it was effective.  You can also, in some cases prove that you have attempted some of the Tier III interventions and have the data if it has been effective.  If a students has been involved in all of their Tiers, you also have a deep understanding of their learning abilities.  This data proves invaluable if you are trying to have a student evaluated for special education services. 

Olivia

Sources:  http://blog.edmentum.com/mtss-new-rti,
                 http://www.florida-rti.org/educatorresources/mtss_book_implcomp_012612.pdf