SLD Criteria

What are the key components of the RTI2 Framework?

A key component of RTI2 is that all children receive high quality curriculum and instruction in the general education classroom (Tier l).

Another component of RTI2 is that the school conducts universal screenings.  Universal screenings review the performance and progress of all students through brief assessments. Universal screenings help schools identify students who may need more support or other types of instruction.

As a result of universal screenings, students may be identified as needing targeted intervention (Tier ll) in addition to the high quality instruction they are receiving in Tier l. Research based interventions are used to support students in the area(s) in which they are struggling. Research based interventions are teaching strategies or methods that have been proven effective in helping children learn.

Another key component of RTI2 is progress monitoring. Progress monitoring is a way for teachers to take a snapshot of how children are doing on a specific skill.  It shows how well the intervention is working.  It includes formal and informal assessments. Progress monitoring helps determine whether an intervention is successful or needs to be changed. This information is shared with parents on a regular basis.

When progress monitoring indicates that the intervention is no longer needed, the child continues to receive support from the general education curriculum (Tier I).  When progress monitoring shows that a child is not responding to the intervention, another approach or intervention may be tried. If a higher level of support is needed, students may be given more intense intervention that further focuses on the supporting skills they need to be successful learners (Tier lll). Students who do not respond to Tier III interventions may be referred for special education.

What if I think my child needs special education?

If at any time parents become concerned that their child needs special education, they should contact their child’s teacher or administrator. Other forms of evaluation, in addition to information gathered through the RTI2 framework, are needed to determine if a student is eligible for special education services. In order for these evaluations to be conducted, a parent’s written consent is required.

Ways to Support Your Child in School

  • Make reading an everyday habit a home
  • Communicate with your child’s teacher
  • Monitor and assist with homework assignments
  • Review progress monitoring data
  • Share your child’s successes
  • Learn more about the curricula and interventions being used in your child’s school
  • Attend parent/teacher conferences and other school meeting about your child

Talk to your child’s teacher or principal for more information about how RTI2 is being implemented in your child’s school.