MTSS vs. RtI
According to the Texas Education Agency, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a term that encompasses supports for the whole child, and takes into account academics, behavior, and social/emotional supports. TEA has already begun using the term MTSS and will continue to help districts transition to this term. MTSS is the term that is being used more and more nationwide. Response to Intervention (RtI) is a term that you may continue to hear to describe academic supports under the larger umbrella of MTSS or you may hear the term academic MTSS. These terms mean the same thing, and they include the same basic constructs (e.g., a tiered model, universal screening, progress monitoring, intensified intervention, data-based decision making, etc.). Intervention Best Practices is one of our new Statewide Leadership Networks that began in the 2019-2020 school year.
The U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, clarified the term MTSS in a "Dear Colleague" letter dated October 23, 2015, which states:
For those students who may need additional academic and behavioral supports to succeed in a general education environment, schools may choose to implement a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), such as response to intervention (RTI) or positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). MTSS is a schoolwide approach that addresses the needs of all students, including struggling learners and students with disabilities, and integrates assessment and intervention within a multi-level instructional and behavioral system to maximize student achievement and reduce problem behaviors.
USDE, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, “Dear Colleague” letter: A Parent May Request an Initial Evaluation at Any Time
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