This conversation focuses on the structure and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams in educational settings. The speakers discuss the importance of accountability, data-driven decision-making, and the roles and responsibilities within MTSS teams. They emphasize the need for effective meeting structures and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to improve student outcomes. The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership and collaboration in implementing MTSS successfully.

Resources:

MTSS Meetings Guide

Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings

2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

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Takeaways:

• MTSS is essential for improving student outcomes.
• Effective teaming structures are crucial for collaboration.
• Data-driven decision-making enhances the MTSS process.
• Qualitative data provides insights that quantitative data may miss.
• Clear roles and responsibilities improve team efficiency.
• Regular meetings are necessary for effective MTSS implementation.
• Agendas help keep meetings focused and productive.
• Building a supportive schedule is key to MTSS success.
• Leadership plays a vital role in MTSS effectiveness.
• Starting small can lead to significant improvements.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) and the importance of analyzing screening data to identify patterns that indicate the effectiveness of core instruction and interventions. She emphasizes the need to address issues such as flipped triangles, upward tier movement, and demographic disparities to create a more equitable educational system. The conversation highlights the significance of strengthening core instruction, ensuring targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration among educators to meet the diverse needs of students.

Resources:

Article: Understanding MTSS Tier Levels: Common Problems and Solutions

Article: Flipped MTSS Triangle? Effective Strategies for School Administrators.

2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

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Takeaways:

• About 80% of students should thrive with Tier 1 core instruction.
• A flipped triangle indicates a system problem, not a student problem.
• Strengthening Tier 1 is essential before supporting Tiers 2 and 3.
• Dynamic MTSS allows students to move between tiers based on response to instruction.
• Quality and quantity of interventions are crucial for success.
• Demographic disparities require an equity check in support systems.
• Implicit bias can influence student identification for support.
• Core instruction must be rigorous and evidence-based.
• Collaboration among educators is key to effective MTSS implementation.
• Data analysis should drive strategic decisions in education.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Whitley Dozier and Larissa discuss the complexities of change management in education, addressing common misconceptions, the role of leadership, and the importance of communication. They emphasize that change is a continuous process that requires ongoing support and understanding of the people involved. The discussion highlights the need for a shared vision, the significance of recognizing resistance as a signal for support, and the necessity of embedding change into the culture of educational institutions.

Resources:

Article: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for Change

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Capacity Building for MTSS Article

Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation

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2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit

Takeaways:

• Change management has three components: people-focused, process-driven, and outcome-oriented.
• Misconceptions about change often lead to ineffective communication strategies.
• Strong leadership is important, but change must be a collective effort.
• Ongoing communication and feedback are essential for successful change implementation.
• Resistance to change can stem from overload and lack of clarity.
• Change is a continuous process, not a one-time event.
• Celebrating small wins can help maintain momentum in change initiatives.
• Understanding the context and experiences of educators is crucial for effective change management.
• Change management should involve co-creation and shared vision among stakeholders.
• Effective change management requires a focus on both quantitative and qualitative outcomes.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!