Schoolin' Around: Recent Episodes
Branching Minds
Schoolin' Around is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Branching Minds, featuring prominent leaders, subject-matter experts, and thought innovators with their perspectives on the current challenges facing K-12 education.
In this episode, Dr. Emilio Castro, Sr. Executive Director of Schoolsof Houston ISD, shares invaluable leadership insights from his 24 years in education, focusing on common traps that derail superintendents and strategies for building effective systems and teams. Perfect for aspiring and current district leaders aiming to enhance their leadership capacity.
Resources:
Books Dr. Castro Recommends
- The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive – Patrick Lencioni
- The Five Temptations of a CEO – Patrick Lencioni
- The Advantage– Patrick Lencioni
- Good to Great – Jim Collins
- Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek
- The Speed of Trust – Stephen M. R. Covey
Dr. Emilio Castro
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Article: Leadership and System-Level Work in MTSS
Article: Top 5 MTSS Implementation Tips for School and District Leaders
Guide: The District Leader’s Guide to MTSS and Strategic Planning
Webinar: The Role of MTSS in District Improvement: Aligning Vision and Action
Request a consultation
Key Topics:
- Leadership traps and how to avoid them
- Building leadership capacity and density
- Effective communication and clarity in leadership
- System alignment and crisis management
- Habits and strategies for young leaders
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 revisits her interview with Theresa Donohue from Plainview Old Beth Page to explore the district's journey through MTSS implementation, challenges, and successes over the past few years. Discover how strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and team collaboration transformed their approach to supporting student achievement.
Resources:
- DataWise Protocol
- How to Scale Up Your MTSS District-Wide
- MTSS Month-by-Month Checklists
- Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The importance of district leadership support in sustaining MTSS initiatives
- Cultivating trust through consistent communication and professional growth opportunities
- The value of data protocols in shifting classroom culture from personal to collaborative data use
- Future focus on subgroup analysis, equity, and targeted interventions
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!
Summer Replay: In this conversation, educators Ashley Robertson and Emily Jordan discuss the critical role of classroom management in fostering a productive learning environment. They explore the challenges faced by teachers, particularly in the post-COVID landscape, where emotional dysregulation among students has increased. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building relationships, focusing on positive behaviors, and the need for ongoing professional development. They also highlight the role of school leaders in supporting teachers and the evolving nature of classroom management strategies, advocating for a shift from punitive measures to restorative practices that prioritize student well-being.
Resources:
Blog: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS Tier
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
Takeaways:
- Classroom management is crucial for student success.
- Post-COVID, students are struggling with emotional regulation.
- Building relationships with students enhances classroom management.
- Focusing on positive behaviors can improve classroom dynamics.
- Behavior change requires time and consistent support.
- School leaders play a vital role in setting expectations.
- Professional development is essential for teacher growth.
- Restorative practices are more effective than punitive measures.
- Technology can distract students from learning.
- Classroom management strategies must evolve with changing student needs.
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!
SUMMER REPLAY: In this conversation, Michele James, member of Branching Minds Professional Services, and Larissa discuss the critical aspects of supporting new teachers, particularly through the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). They emphasize the importance of building community, providing structured support, and creating a collaborative environment for new educators. The discussion covers strategies for effective onboarding, the significance of mentorship, and the need for ongoing professional development to ensure new teachers feel equipped and confident in their roles.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
MTSS Coaching Toolkit
ICEL Key Domains of Learning
RIOT and ICEL Matrix: Sources of Information and Variables to Assess
Takeaways:
- Building community is essential for new teachers' success.
- New teachers often feel overwhelmed, akin to 'drinking out of a fire hose.'
- Orientation should focus on relationship-building rather than just information delivery.
- MTSS implementation requires a clear path and ongoing support.
- Teachers can only handle a limited amount of information at once.
- New teachers should have a seat at the table in collaborative meetings.
- Creating a non-evaluative atmosphere helps new teachers feel safe.
- Asking the right questions can guide productive discussions about student support.
- Planning for professional development is crucial for new teachers.
- Strategic onboarding can significantly impact new teachers' experiences.
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!
SUMMER REPLAY: In this conversation, Larissa interviews Shannon Thornton from Warrensville, Ohio, about the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in their district. Shannon emphasizes the importance of teacher buy-in and the need for ongoing education and training on MTSS. She also discusses the development of an MTSS handbook to provide a centralized resource for teachers and administrators. In this conversation, Shannon Thornton, a district administrator, discusses the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in her district. She emphasizes the importance of regularly revisiting and updating the MTSS handbook to ensure clarity and address teachers' questions.
Resources:
Guide: MTSS Buy-in and Mobilization Guide
Webinar: Buy-In (in MTSS) is Like Sunscreen
Article: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for Change
Takeaways:
- Implementing MTSS is a complex task that requires investment in intervention teachers and programs.
- Teacher buy-in is crucial for successful implementation of MTSS.
- Ongoing education and training on MTSS is necessary to ensure understanding and implementation fidelity.
- Implementing MTSS at the secondary level presents unique challenges, including the need for specialized teachers.
- A centralized resource, such as an MTSS handbook, can support teachers and administrators in implementing MTSS effectively. Regularly revisiting and updating the MTSS handbook is crucial for clarity and addressing teachers' questions
- One-on-one meetings with teachers can help identify and address students who are not making adequate progress
- Implementing MTSS can lead to growth and improved outcomes for students
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, Larissa and Sandra discuss essential back-to-school strategies for educators and school leaders. They emphasize the excitement of a new school year, the importance of setting a positive tone, and the need for clear communication and visibility in leadership. They also highlight the importance of building relationships and support systems among staff, the necessity of meaningful professional development, and the role of feedback in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The discussion provides practical tips and insights for creating a successful school year.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
MTSS Month by Month Checklist
Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Ebook
Takeaways:
- The excitement of a new school year brings fresh opportunities.
- Showing value to staff and students is crucial for success.
- Clear expectations help prioritize important goals.
- Effective communication reduces stress and fosters collaboration.
- Visibility and approachability of leaders enhance school culture.
- Building relationships among staff supports a positive environment.
- Professional development should be meaningful and relevant.
- Feedback should be constructive and promote growth.
- Creating a culture of continuous improvement benefits everyone.
- Leaders should focus on one goal at a time to avoid overwhelm.
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!
Summer Replay: This conversation explores the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in secondary education, specifically at Medina City Schools in Ohio. The discussion highlights the challenges faced, the roles of educators, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. The speakers share their experiences with MTSS, emphasizing the need for systematic support, collaboration among staff, and the integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) into the educational framework. They also provide insights into the progress made and the future goals for improving student outcomes.
Resources:
Guide: Implementing MTSS in Secondary Schools
MTSS in Secondary Schools
MTSS in High School Article
Webinar: EWS https://hubs.ly/Q02RznQb0
Takeaways:
- MTSS is becoming more common in secondary schools.
- Collaboration among educators is crucial for MTSS success.
- Data collection and analysis are foundational for effective MTSS.
- Social-emotional learning is essential for student engagement.
- Teachers need ongoing professional development to implement MTSS.
- Building relationships with students is key to their success.
- Addressing disproportionality in education is a priority.
- Focusing on one area of improvement at a time is effective.
- Creating a supportive school culture enhances student learning.
- Continuous communication about the purpose of MTSS is necessary.
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 Napolitan talks with April Remfrey, international educational consultant, about building supportive school systems, effective classroom routines, and fostering trust and collaboration among educators. They explore practical strategies for leaders to enhance MTSS implementation and create sustainable, inclusive learning environments.
Resources:
https://www.remfrey.com/
April Remfrey on LinkedIn
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights
Takeaways:
- Systems are reflected in teacher conversations.
- Teaching practices are rooted in system soil.
- Proactive maintenance beats reactive intervention.
- Trust and calmness signal system health.
- Feedback loops act like nutrients.
- Small shifts can ripple widely.
- Sustained focus beats quick fixes.
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, we discuss the importance of setting intentions over goals, reflection, and how deliberate leadership can transform the upcoming school year. She offers practical strategies for educators to reflect, set intentions, and lead with purpose, especially in the context of MTSS.
Resources:
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Summer Reflection Questions
Article: Reflecting on Yourself as a Leader
Article: How to Let Your Values Guide You as a School Leader
Article: What K-12 Leaders Need to Know About the Power of Self-Reflection
Article: Setting Intentions: A Powerful Tool to Help Us Learn
Takeaways:
- Distinguish between goals that set destinations and intentions that define how you show up.
- Use reflection as a counterbalance to keep school change from becoming chaos or burnout.
- Set clear intentions to prime your neural system for spotting opportunities that align with your leadership style.
- Protect your staff’s energy by removing unnecessary initiatives before adding new ones.
- Use the L.O.V.E. framework to evaluate whether your decisions truly align with your core values.
- Build trust through small, kept promises rather than relying on grand declarations.
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!
The episode explores how deep district alignment transforms educational practices by embedding frameworks into daily routines in Person County, North Carolina. The guests, Kelly Kiser and Lyndsay Hubbard, highlight the importance of visibility in student progress to boost teacher buy-in and confidence. The discussion emphasizes hands-on support through coaching, which bridges the gap between policy and practice. Finally, it showcases how consistent structures and cross-school collaboration lead to sustainable educational transformation.
Resources:
The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Embedding frameworks into daily practices leads to true reform.
- Tangible growth evidence turns compliance into conviction.
- Coaching bridges the gap between policy and practice.
- Standardizing protocols ensures high-quality practices.
- Rethinking support models ignites transformation.
- Sharing practices reduces siloed thinking.
- A well-planned calendar builds confidence and momentum.
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 interview, Dr. Kristen Panzerella from Lawrence UFSD in New York, shares her district's journey in implementing MTSS, emphasizing the importance of getting into the work quickly, building staff buy-in through consistency, and adapting practices to support diverse student populations. Discover practical strategies for overcoming analysis paralysis and fostering a culture of action in education.
Resources:
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
MTSS Meetings Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Start quickly to fuel progress.
- Visible results build commitment.
- Consistency unifies student experiences.
- Focus on a few targeted interventions.
- Action builds momentum faster than planning.
- Small wins foster continuous improvement.
- Rapid action reveals real needs.
- Empower staff to innovate and revise.
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, Valerie Parsons, a Professional Learning Consultant at Branching Minds, school administrator, and author of the MTSS playbook series, shares her expert insights on leveraging end-of-year data to improve educational outcomes. She discusses key topics such as data analysis, universal screening, test preparation strategies, and effective planning for the upcoming school year.
Resources:
MTSS Playbook Series: End-of-Year Winning Plays
Webinar: Turning Insights into Action: EOY Data for Administrators
Blog: End-of-Year Reflection and Planning With MTSS: Connect the Dots With Branching Minds
EOY Action Plan
Schedule a Conversation
Takeaways:
- Use data to make informed decisions and improve educational outcomes.
- Utilize checklists to ensure nothing falls through the cracks during the school year.
- Keep motivation high and evaluate student progress to plan future support.
- Understand the benefits and limitations of different assessment types.
- Ensure district-wide consistency in cut scores for accurate data analysis.
- Use data to guide professional learning and improve instructional effectiveness.
- Regularly assess and refine systems for ongoing improvement.
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!
This episode explores the critical role of self-regulation and executive functions in early education, revealing how they underpin academic success. Authors Mitch Weathers and Sarah Oberle share practical strategies for creating classroom environments that nurture these skills. By focusing on routines and reducing distractions, educators can enhance students' ability to learn and behave effectively. This approach empowers teachers to foster independence and resilience in young learners.
Resources:
Executive Function Toolkit
Executive Function in MTSS
Executive Function Webinar
Book: Executive Functions for Every K-3 Classroom: Promoting Self-Regulation for a Strong Start
Organized Binder
2026 Mini Summit
Takeaways:
- Executive functions are essential for early learning success.
- Classroom environments significantly impact executive function development.
- Cognitive bandwidth limits learning capacity and needs support.
- Supporting executive functions promotes educational equity.
- Teaching self-regulation is foundational to learning.
- Consistent routines enhance cognitive development.
- Leadership is key to embedding executive function practices.
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!
This podcast episode features a deep dive into a decade-long journey of implementing and refining Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in Mineola Union Free School District in New York. Sara Ortiz and Katie Shanahan share insights, challenges, and strategies for building a data-driven, proactive support system that enhances student outcomes and staff collaboration.
Resources:
The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
Capacity Building for MTSS Article
MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article
Article: Leadership and System-Level Work in MTSS
Register for MTSS Mini Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Align stakeholders to prevent siloed efforts.
- Use data to prevent crises.
- Transform culture with strategic data use.
- Use a manual for aligned decision-making.
- Regular dialogue fosters resilience.
- Enhance decisions with comprehensive systems.
- Recognize implementation as a long-term journey.
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, Kristyn Jones and Heather Terry from Norris High School in Nebraska, explore how their implementation of a check-in, check-out intervention is fostering more proactive and relational support systems for students with behavioral needs. They share practical insights, data strategies, and team collaboration tips that can help other schools build effective Tier 2 behavior interventions.
Resources:
Webinar: Check In Check Out and Beyond: Tier 2 Behavior Interventions That Build Relationships and Foster School Connectedness
Tier 2 Behavior Guide
MTSS in Secondary Schools
Designing a Menu of Behavior Intervention Options: Beyond Check-In Check-Out
MTSS Mini Summit 2026
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Check-in, check-out (CICO) serves as an effective Tier 2 intervention and tracking system.
- Integration with the branching minds platform enhances monitoring and decision-making.
- Teacher training and staff buy-in are crucial for successful implementation.
- Real-life success stories demonstrate the intervention’s positive impact.
- Data is leveraged for relational support and academic improvement.
- Discipline and behavioral data inform broader Tier 1 and Tier 3 practices.
- School staff collaboration, including counselors and resource officers, is vital.
- Gradual implementation and patience are key to rolling out interventions.
- Creative scheduling helps embed Tier 2 supports during the school day.
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!
This episode explores how education leaders can foster student engagement through practical strategies like student voice, choice, and empowerment, even with limited time. It emphasizes shifting from compliance to student-driven learning to improve achievement and motivation.
Resources:
Article: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS Tier
Article: Student Engagement: Why It’s Important and How To Promote It
Article: The Importance of Engaging Student Voices in MTSS
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Shift from compliance to autonomy to transform engagement.
- Frontload safety and relevance to ensure engagement success.
- Focus feedback on student actions to unlock growth.
- Utilize existing high-impact strategies across routines.
- Build connections and relevance to enhance secondary engagement.
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 insightful interview, authors Tiffany Burns and Erica Bare discuss their new book, 'A School Leader's Playbook for Tough Conversations.' They share practical strategies for school leaders to navigate difficult dialogues with staff and students, emphasizing the importance of care, preparation, body language, and ongoing coaching to foster trust and positive school culture.
Resources:
Book: A School Leader’s Playbook for Tough Conversations
Tiffany and Erika's Website
Free Resources
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Capacity Building for MTSS Article
Building Trust and MTSS Buy-In Through Teacher Feedback
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Tough conversations don't get easier with time; they get harder.
- Transparency about intent builds trust and clarifies misunderstandings.
- Body language and tone are more impactful than words in communication.
- Consistent, ongoing feedback fosters growth and reduces surprises.
- Empathy and curiosity are key when emotions run high.
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 insightful interview, Patrick Hall and Laura Frederick from Wyoming Indian Schools share their journey of implementing MTSS, leveraging data, and fostering transparency with families to improve student outcomes. Discover how their strategic use of Branching Minds has transformed their approach to student support and community engagement.
Resources:
MTSS & Families Article
Navigating Parental Consent in MTSS to Empower Parents to Make Informed Decisions
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- View parents and families as teammates in education.
- Build transparency and strengthen family connections.
- Understand cultural sensitivities and historical context.
- Use data to drive decisions and improve outcomes.
- Communicate consistently with families about interventions.
- Empower teachers to build trust and improve culture.
- Focus on continuous improvement and refining practices.
- Plan for future improvements and enhance family involvement.
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!
Beth Corkum, the MTSS coordinator at SAU 67 in New Hampshire, shares her journey of transforming data meetings at Bow Elementary through technology and strategic planning. Discover how streamlined processes, staff collaboration, and district support have enhanced student support and educator morale.
Resources:
MTSS Meetings Guide
Effective Meetings Webinar
Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings
Takeaways:
- Focus on making quick decisions with data, not just gathering information.
- Automate data tasks to give teachers more time with students.
- Encourage teamwork by setting aside time for collaboration.
- Small changes in systems can lead to big improvements over time.
- Make data accessible to everyone to empower decision-making.
- A district strategist can connect different educational levels for better 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!
This episode explores the shift from reactive referral-based behavior support to proactive, universal screening methods in schools. Experts discuss the limitations of referral systems, the benefits of universal screening tools like the SSRS-IE, and practical strategies for implementation and staff training.
Featuring Branching Minds Team members, Ashley Pennell, Rachel Butler, and Christina Solinger.
Resources:
Guide for Universal Screening for SEL & Behavior
Article: Changing the Way (and the Reason) You Document Behavior
Webinar: Moving from Referral to Screening-Based Tiering for Behavior Support
Why Universal Behavioral/SEL Screening Matters
Learn more about Branching Minds: Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Universal behavior screening shifts the paradigm from reactive to proactive support
- Data integration across academic and behavioral domains unlocks holistic student support
- Teacher biases and subjectivity distort student identification without standardized tools
- Capacity and cultural considerations are central to successful screening adoption
- Fear of data leading to intervention is valid but manageable through clear planning
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 insightful interview, Author and Educator, Katrina Huels discusses her book 'Transformational Tools for Special Educators' and explores practical strategies to combat educator burnout. The conversation emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience building to support educators' well-being and improve student outcomes.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
https://howwefeel.org/
Katrina's Website: https://www.huelsappliedharmony.com/
Katrina's Book: https://a.co/d/00siKtaO
MTSS Coaching Toolkit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Developing emotional intelligence can reduce burnout and improve school culture.
- Consistent practice of self-awareness and breathwork enhances resilience.
- School-wide adoption of emotional skills fosters supportive environments.
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!
This episode explores effective strategies for summer professional development, emphasizing adult learning principles, ongoing support, and building strong MTSS frameworks through targeted leadership coaching.
Resources:
School Leader Guide to PD
Differentiating Your MTSS PD article
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Toolkit for Leading Adults in MTSS Learning
Utilizing Adult Learning Theory in MTSS Professional Development
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Effective summer professional development strategies
- Adult learning theory and its application in education
- Building and sustaining a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS)
- Leadership development and coaching for school leaders
- Creating a culture of continuous learning and improvement
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, Cass McKay, a former testing coordinator and member of the Branching Minds team, shares practical tips, humorous stories, and insights to help educators navigate the stressful assessment season. From planning and team management to debunking myths, discover how to survive and thrive during testing time.
Resources:
8th/9th Month MTSS Checklist
School Leader Guide to PD
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Always have a backup plan for testing day disruptions.
- Build a supportive team with clear communication tools.
- Don’t be too rigid with schedules; adapt as needed.
- Take care of yourself — wear comfortable shoes and eat well.
- Use humor and stories to connect and reduce stress.
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, Larissa interviews school leaders in Texas about what is going well in their districts. They share insights on how to foster a supportive environment for both educators and students, emphasizing the need for effective communication and shared leadership in schools.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
College and Career Readiness Webinar
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
MTSS & Families Toolkit
Tier 1 Core Instruction Article
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Celebrating small wins can reignite motivation in education.
- Community engagement is crucial for successful educational programs.
- Collaboration among staff leads to improved student outcomes.
- Data-driven decisions help identify areas for improvement.
- Investing in leadership development enhances instructional quality.
- Parent involvement is key to student success.
- Utilizing effective curricula can lead to significant growth.
- Shared knowledge among staff fosters a positive school culture.
- Continuous training is essential for adapting to new educational challenges.
- Building a supportive team environment is vital for achieving goals.
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, Larissa discusses the importance of teamwork in education with representatives from Springs Charter Schools, who have successfully implemented a holistic approach to student support through the MTSS framework. They share insights on the significance of data visibility, collaboration across departments, and the necessity of training for effective implementation. The discussion emphasizes the shift from individual responsibility to a shared commitment to student success, highlighting the importance of building relationships and addressing the root causes of student challenges.
Resources:
MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article
A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation
Middle of Year eBook
Momentum Awards
Takeaways:
- Teamwork is essential for student success in education.
- MTSS is a collaborative approach that involves all staff members.
- Data visibility is crucial for understanding student needs.
- Training is vital for effective implementation of MTSS.
- Building relationships with students is foundational for progress.
- Personalized learning requires flexibility and adaptation.
- Collaboration across departments enhances student support.
- Addressing root causes leads to better student outcomes.
- Success stories motivate and inspire educators.
- Continuous feedback and adjustment are necessary for improvement.
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!
This conversation highlights the efforts of educators at Woodbury Hills Elementary and Danville Public Schools in Virginia, in fostering a positive school culture through various initiatives. The discussion covers the importance of celebrating successes, engaging students through social media, utilizing data-driven instruction, and recognizing both staff and student achievements. The collaborative efforts among teachers and staff are emphasized as key to supporting student growth and maintaining morale within the educational community.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Article: The Power of Strength Based Instruction
MTSS and Attendance Article
MTSS Momentum Awards
Takeaways:
- Celebrating small successes leads to overall growth and improved morale.
- MTSS is not just another program; educators are already implementing many of its principles.
- Engaging students through social media has proven effective in increasing attendance.
- Data-driven instruction helps identify student needs and tailor support accordingly.
- Recognition of both students and staff fosters a positive environment.
- Collaboration among educators enhances the effectiveness of teaching strategies.
- Parental involvement is crucial for student success and attendance.
- Creative approaches to engagement can significantly impact student motivation.
- The importance of community and connection in driving educational success.
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!
This conversation explores the journey of Lee School in Norridge School District in Illinois, focusing on their successful implementation of the MTSS framework. The educators discuss the importance of collaboration, teacher development, and family engagement in fostering student success. They share insights on building a strong MTSS framework, the significance of knowing the 'why' behind their efforts, and the continuous improvement of their processes. The conversation emphasizes the role of teachers and the community in creating a supportive educational environment.
Resources:
Momentum Awards
MTSS Intervention Flowchart Guide
MTSS Handbook Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Success is built on momentum, which is crucial for sustaining educational initiatives.
- Understanding the community and demographics is essential for effective educational strategies.
- Collaboration among educators is vital for student success and should be ongoing, not just during meetings.
- Knowing the 'why' behind MTSS helps in articulating goals and maintaining focus.
- Creating clear guidelines and handbooks can help teachers navigate the MTSS process more effectively.
- Investing in teacher development is key to ensuring they feel confident in implementing new strategies.
- Engaging families in the educational process fosters a supportive environment for students.
- Continuous improvement and layering new initiatives can enhance the effectiveness of existing programs.
- Transparency and communication with parents help build trust and collaboration.
- The dedication and effort of teachers are fundamental to the success of any educational framework.
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, we explore how Samuel Walker Houston Elementary in Huntsville ISD leverages PBIS and MTSS to create a positive and inclusive school environment. Assistant Principal Anthony Williams shares actionable strategies for systems, relationship building, and student engagement that are transforming their school community.
Samuel Walker Houston Elementary was one of our Momentum Award winners this year. They were recognized for their momentum in the area of PBIS and MTSS.
Resources:
Article: PBIS: More than Points and Parties
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
Branching Minds Momentum Awards
Capturing Kids Hearts
PBIS
Samuel Walker Houston Elementary School Website
Takeaways:
- The importance of building capacity in teachers for classroom management
- How PBIS guiding principles, like "Big Rocks," align staff and student behavior
- Using classroom expectations, rewards, and recognition to reinforce positive behavior
- The innovative badge challenge system that promotes collective student achievement
- Data-driven approaches to reducing office discipline referrals
- The significance of strong relationships and speaking with purpose
- The long-term commitment needed to implement effective school-wide systems
- Strategies for beginning or reinvigorating PBIS and MTSS programs
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 critical difference between reacting and responding in school leadership, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies in behavior management. She explores the neuroscience behind these reactions, particularly the roles of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, and provides practical strategies for shifting from a reactive to a responsive school environment. The episode concludes with a challenge for school leaders to implement one proactive strategy to address recurring behavior challenges.
Resources:
Article: How To Utilize Behavior Staff Effectively in MTSS/PBIS
Article: 5 Tips for De-Escalation and Building Strong Relationships with Students
Webinar: Enhancing School Safety Through Restorative Practices and MTSS
Tier 3 Behavior Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The difference between reacting and responding is crucial in school leadership.
- Our brains influence our responses to crises in school settings.
- The amygdala drives reactive responses, while the prefrontal cortex enables thoughtful responses.
- Proactive planning is essential for effective behavior management.
- MTSS serves as a framework for building a responsive school culture.
- Behavior staff should focus on prevention, not just reaction.
- Empowering teachers can reduce the need for referrals.
- Restorative practices promote learning and community repair.
- School leaders set the emotional tone for their environment.
- Shifting to a responsive model takes time and persistence.
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 interviews Makiri Pugh, Managing Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation at Maya Angelou Schools in DC, about the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). They discuss the challenges and successes of integrating MTSS into the school's culture, emphasizing the importance of relationships, data-driven decisions, and the holistic support of students.
Resources:
Ultimate MTSS Guide
School Leader Guide to PD
MTSS in Secondary Schools
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS implementation requires strong leadership and commitment.
- Alternative schools like Maya Angelou Schools focus on relational culture.
- MTSS is about organizing existing practices, not adding new ones.
- Centralized data snapshots help teachers understand student needs.
- Tiered instruction is essential for effective student support.
- Attendance and behavior data are crucial for academic success.
- Social-emotional support is foundational for student learning.
- Small changes can significantly impact student outcomes.
- Collaboration among educators enhances student support.
- Building relationships is key to successful MTSS implementation.
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 engaging conversation, Larisssa and Patty McGee explore the multifaceted nature of literacy, emphasizing the importance of writing alongside reading. They discuss the need for authentic conversations in education, the rethinking of grammar instruction, and the role of educators in fostering a supportive environment for young writers. The discussion highlights the significance of feedback, the integration of grammar into writing, and the necessity of creating a safe space for students to express themselves. Patty shares valuable insights and strategies for improving writing instruction and supporting students in their writing journeys.
Resources:
Patty’s Resources
- Website
- Grammar Memes
- Book: Not Your Granny’s Grammar
- Learning Plan Example
Early Literacy and Branching Minds Article
Takeaways:
- Literacy encompasses both reading and writing, and both are essential.
- Authentic conversations in education foster deeper understanding.
- Rethinking grammar instruction can enhance student engagement.
- Writing is a powerful tool for self-expression and advocacy.
- Feedback should focus on teaching the writer, not just correcting mistakes.
- Creating a neutral tone during writing time encourages student participation.
- Modeling writing techniques helps students understand expectations.
- Integrating grammar instruction into writing practice is crucial.
- Young writers need a safe space to explore their creativity.
- Educational leaders play a vital role in supporting effective writing instruction.
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 podcast episode, Larissa and Dr. Brian Gaunt discuss the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), clarifying its definition, misconceptions, and its role in education. They explore how MTSS differs from other frameworks like RTI and PBIS, emphasizing its focus on prevention and effective decision-making. The conversation also highlights the essential components of an MTSS system and the interconnectedness of academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning (SEL) in supporting the whole child.
Resources:
A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation
Free Download: What is MTSS?
MTSS FAQs: Your Simple Questions About Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, Answered
Enter 2025 Wins Giveaway
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS is a framework that creates conditions for effective decision-making.
- It's essential to understand MTSS as a guide for school improvement, not just another program.
- Prevention is a key aspect of MTSS, focusing on supporting students before they fall behind.
- The success of MTSS relies on being integrated into the district's policies and practices.
- Different states may define MTSS differently, but core components remain similar.
- MTSS encompasses both academic and behavioral support, addressing the whole child.
- Effective implementation of MTSS requires ongoing professional development and coaching.
- Data-driven decision-making is crucial for identifying student needs and monitoring progress.
- Collaboration among teams is necessary to address the interconnected needs of students.
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, we explore the significance of celebrating wins in the educational field, particularly within the context of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing both small and big achievements to combat burnout and foster motivation. It provides practical strategies for integrating celebration into daily routines and highlights the impact of community involvement in recognizing educational successes.
Resources:
How To Establish a Supportive & Successful MTSS Culture
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empower-your-mind/202406/from-small-steps-to-big-wins-the-importance-of-celebrating
https://www.newleaders.org/blog/how-celebrating-your-schools-wins-leads-to-more-wins
Momentum Awards 2025
Enter 2025 Wins Giveaway
Takeaways:
- Celebrating wins is essential for motivation and mental health.
- Skipping celebrations can lead to burnout in educators.
- Small wins are just as important as big milestones.
- Celebration can be integrated into regular meetings.
- Personalized celebrations can have a significant impact.
- Community involvement strengthens the educational system.
- Celebrating successes builds a sense of collective efficacy.
- Recognition can be as simple as a handwritten note.
- Creating a 'wall of wins' can boost morale.
- Acknowledging even minor achievements is crucial
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. Claudia Rinaldi discusses the importance of supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. She emphasizes the need for thoughtful strategies, collaboration among educators, and effective progress monitoring to ensure ELLs receive the support they need. The discussion also highlights the significance of cultural connections, data-driven decision-making, and practical strategies that can be implemented in the classroom to enhance language development and academic success for ELLs.
Resources:
Can Do Descriptors
Summit Session from Dr. Rinaldi
English Language Learner Article
Dr. Claudia Rinaldi
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS provides a preventive framework for ELLs.
- Progress monitoring should include language development.
- Teachers need to collaborate and share expertise.
- Cultural connections enhance learning for ELLs.
- Data-driven decision-making is crucial for effective support.
- Peer-assisted learning strategies can benefit ELLs.
- Educators should view themselves as consultants.
- Background knowledge is essential for ELL success.
- Using native language can aid in understanding concepts.
- Regular meetings among educators can improve student 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!
In this conversation, Larissa and R. Keeth Matheny discuss the importance of preparing students for college and careers through the development of essential skills, particularly emotional intelligence and soft skills. They explore how educators can integrate these skills into the curriculum, the role of parents and community in supporting students, and the real-life applications of these skills. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to education that nurtures both academic and human skills, preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce.
Resources:
@eqcoach_rudy
Coach Rudy's Website: https://sellaunchpad.com/
ExSELent Teaching: Classroom strategies to support the social, emotional, and academic growth of students
School Connect: https://school-connect.net/
College and Career Readiness Webinar
How MTSS Supports College and Career Readiness for All Students
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Preparing students for college and careers is critical.
- College and career readiness involves strong academic roots and emotional intelligence.
- The future of work will require emotional intelligence skills.
- We need to grow great humans who can launch into the world.
- Soft skills are essential for success in life and relationships.
- Educators can layer soft skills into content delivery.
- Collaboration and communication are key skills for students.
- Parents and community play a vital role in reinforcing skills.
- Real-life applications of skills help cement learning.
- The future belongs to those who can master new technology while maintaining human skills.
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 of Schoolin' Around, host Larissa Napolitan engages with Angie Plugge, the Director of Learning at Waverly School District in Nebraska, to discuss the implementation and impact of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in education. They explore the challenges and successes of MTSS, the importance of continuous improvement, and share real-life stories of student success. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, data analysis, and the significance of setting a strong foundation at the beginning of the school year.
Resources:
Waverly's Success
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
Capacity Building for MTSS Article
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- We have to prioritize where we really want to focus.
- Data analysis is not intuitive.
- It's about helping people meet their fullest potential.
- We have to build capacity for sustainable capacity.
- There's power in stories with MTSS.
- We need to connect the student outcome to the teacher action.
- Every year your group of students is different.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to MTSS and Educational Challenges
01:29 The Importance of Setting Up Structures
04:17 Angie's Journey with MTSS
06:53 The Role of Data in MTSS
09:54 The Impact of MTSS on Student Success
12:41 Gradual Release and Building Capacity
15:27 Connecting Teacher Actions to Student Outcomes
17:58 Celebrating Student Success and Teacher Efficacy
20:59 Final Thoughts on MTSS Implementation
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!
The conversation explores the challenges educators face in utilizing data effectively. It highlights the overwhelming nature of data, the difficulty in extracting actionable insights, and the importance of leadership in guiding teachers to make informed decisions based on data.
Resources:
Article: How Meaningful Metrics Drive MTSS Success
Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Data overload can hinder effective teaching.
- Teachers often struggle to find actionable insights.
- Vague data does not provide clear guidance for educators.
- Leadership plays a crucial role in data utilization.
- Effective teaching requires clear direction from data.
- Data should serve as a map, not a mountain.
- Educators need support in interpreting data.
- Actionable insights can transform teaching practices.
- Data-driven decisions require clarity and purpose.
- Leadership can bridge the gap between data and teaching.
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, Larissa speaks with Katie Ahsell and Trisha Senne from Community Consolidated School District 59 about the challenges and successes they have faced in supporting student needs, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They discuss the unique demographics of their district, the importance of equitable resource allocation, and the collaborative efforts made to improve their multi-tiered system of support (MTSS). The conversation highlights the significance of clear communication, data-driven decision-making, and the positive outcomes resulting from their hard work and commitment to student achievement.
Resources:
A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation
Middle of the Year Webinar: MTSS Momentum
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Supporting student needs across a diverse school district is a challenge.
- A one size fits all approach to intervention is ineffective.
- Post-pandemic, the district had to adopt new curricular resources.
- Recognizing inequities in resource allocation was crucial for change.
- Collaboration among staff and departments was key to success.
- Evaluating and adapting intervention strategies is an ongoing process.
- Effective communication is essential during times of change.
- Celebrating successes boosts morale and confidence among staff.
- Commitment to continuous improvement is vital for student achievement.
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, Nicole Kade, Chief Education Officer of Greenfield Learning, shares her personal journey as a struggling reader and discusses the current challenges in literacy education. She emphasizes the importance of structured literacy, the need for effective teaching practices, and the role of MTSS in supporting struggling readers. Nicole also highlights the significance of engaging students and addressing emotional aspects of learning to read, while advocating for the use of technology as a supportive tool in literacy instruction.
Resources:
https://www.voyagersopris.com/products/reading/rewards
https://www.thereadingleague.org/compass/
A Teachers Guide to Making Phonics Explicit
Website: www.greenfieldlearning.com
Facebook: @GreenfieldLearning
Twitter: @GreenfieldLearn
LinkedIn: @Greenfield Learning Inc
Branching Minds Resources:
- Why We Teach Reading This Way: Understanding Literacy Basics Through the Science of Reading
- Literacy Basics Slides
- Early Literacy and Branching Minds Article
- Early Literacy Webinar
Takeaways:
- Structured literacy is essential for effective reading instruction.
- Many students are not receiving the explicit instruction they need to learn to read.
- Teachers face challenges due to competing initiatives and lack of resources.
- MTSS provides a framework for supporting struggling readers effectively.
- Engagement and relationships are key to motivating students to read.
- Technology can enhance literacy instruction when used intentionally.
- Addressing emotional aspects of learning is crucial for student success.
- Teachers need to be equipped with the right tools and training to support literacy.
- It's never too late for students to learn to read.
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, Larissa and Dr. Jess Plaza discuss the critical topic of school safety within the framework of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). They explore the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for students, emphasizing the need for both physical and emotional safety. Dr. Plaza shares insights on proactive versus reactive approaches to safety, the challenges of implementing safety protocols, and the significance of team dynamics in threat assessments. The discussion also highlights the role of data in identifying student needs and the importance of community support in fostering a holistic educational environment.
Resources:
Guide: Threat Assessment Guide
Article: Assessing Threats and Preventing Danger in Schools: A Multi-Tiered Process
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- School safety is a top priority for educators.
- Emotional and psychological safety is harder to address than physical safety.
- Proactive approaches can prevent crises in schools.
- Clear structures and routines help create a predictable environment.
- MTSS should address both academic and social-emotional needs equally.
- Data from threat assessments is crucial for planning interventions.
- Community support enhances the effectiveness of school safety measures.
- Training staff on responses to crises is essential.
- Building a sense of belonging improves student engagement.
- Confidentiality must be balanced with the need for support.
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, Larissa and Maria Laws explore the intersection of AI and education, discussing how AI can empower both educators and students. They delve into the potential of AI tools to enhance learning experiences, support diverse student needs, and alleviate some of the burdens faced by teachers. The discussion emphasizes the importance of collaboration, addressing resistance to AI, and navigating the ambiguity that comes with adopting new technologies in educational settings. Ultimately, they highlight the role of educators in shaping the future of AI in classrooms and the need for a mindset shift towards embracing innovation.
Resources:
AI for Educators
Future of Meetings with AI Article
Maria Laws LinkedIn
https://scale.stanford.edu/genai/repository
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- AI tools promise enhanced ease and efficiency in education.
- Maria Laws emphasizes the global impact of AI on education.
- AI can empower students to take charge of their learning.
- AI tools can support teachers in meeting diverse student needs.
- Educators need to feel comfortable navigating AI tools.
- Collaboration among educators is crucial for effective AI integration.
- Resistance to AI often stems from fear and uncertainty.
- Professional development should focus on experimentation with AI.
- AI is a part of students' lives and should be integrated into education.
- Empowering educators is key to successful AI adoption.
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!
This episode explores how meaningful, timely, and growth-oriented feedback drives continuous improvement within schools and MTSS frameworks. Drawing from classroom experiences and leadership examples, the host demonstrates how feedback—when specific, collaborative, and actionable—empowers educators, strengthens instructional practice, and fosters a culture of trust. The discussion moves from why feedback matters to practical strategies for giving and receiving it effectively, highlighting its essential role in creating thriving, reflective school communities.
Resources:
Article: Building Trust and MTSS Buy-In Through Teacher Feedback
Student Feedback Article
MTSS Coaching Toolkit
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Feedback is a Growth Engine, Not a Task: When feedback focuses on learning and trust rather than evaluation, it becomes a catalyst for lasting improvement.
- Be Specific and Actionable: Effective feedback targets behaviors, not personality, and offers concrete examples that lead to real classroom changes.
- Create Dialogue, Not Monologue: Feedback should be a two-way conversation where reflection and collaboration drive ownership of professional growth.
- Build a Culture of Psychological Safety: Schools thrive when teachers feel safe to both give and receive feedback without fear—encouraging vulnerability, reflection, and continuous learning.
- Model and Embed Feedback in Daily Practice: Leaders should model openness by inviting feedback on their own work and weave feedback into existing systems for ongoing improvement.
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!
Larissa and her guest, Ashley Pennell, former Assistant Director of Special Education, explore the misconceptions surrounding accommodations in special education, emphasizing the importance of understanding their purpose and the need for individualized support. The discussion highlights the necessity of involving students in their learning process and creating a supportive classroom environment that removes stigmas around asking for help.
Resources:
https://www.ncld.org/
https://www.understood.org/
https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504
Special Ed Article
Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success
Request a consultation
2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit
Takeaways:
- Accommodations provide access, not unfair advantages.
- Misunderstandings about accommodations stem from lack of education.
- It's essential to regularly evaluate the need for accommodations.
- Involving students in discussions about their accommodations is crucial.
- Creating a supportive classroom environment helps reduce stigma.
- Accommodations can be temporary and should be re-evaluated.
- Personalized accommodations are necessary for student success.
- Leveling the playing field is vital for students with disabilities.
- Educators must understand the difference between accommodations and modifications.
- It's okay for students to ask for help and use tools to succeed.
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!
This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI in education, focusing on its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the importance of AI literacy for both students and educators, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in addressing educational equity. Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford, shares insights on how AI can support underserved communities, the barriers to implementing innovative educational practices, and practical advice for education leaders navigating this evolving landscape.
Resources:
https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/digital-learning/
https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/scale/
https://scale.stanford.edu/ai/repository
https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/story/what-does-ai-mean-for-learners-with-disabilities/
https://www.teachai.org/toolkit
https://www.teachai.org/
https://www.cosn.org/
Blog: AI for Educators: Game Changing Tools That Make Your Life Easier
Branchings MTSS Assistant Dottie: https://www.branchingminds.com/dottie-ai-mtss
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- AI is reshaping education by enhancing teaching and learning.
- AI literacy is essential for both students and educators.
- The potential of AI in education is still being explored.
- AI can help close achievement gaps for underserved communities.
- Reimagining education with AI requires innovative thinking.
- Education leaders face challenges in implementing AI effectively.
- AI tools can streamline administrative tasks for teachers.
- Building a culture of AI literacy is crucial for future success.
- AI can support personalized learning experiences for students.
- Collaboration between educators and AI developers is key.
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!
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
Request a consultation
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
Request a consultation
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
Request a consultation
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!
In this conversation, Dr. Andrew Shanock discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in schools. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven instruction, the need for effective teacher training, and the distinction between best practices and good practices in education. Dr. Shanock also highlights the significance of sustaining MTSS over time and building a supportive educational environment to ensure student success.
Resources:
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit
Principal Leadership Article
Article: 5 Factors for District Leaders to Align Vision and Action with MTSS
Dr. Shanock LinkedIn
Takeaways:
- MTSS implementation can be challenging due to misconceptions.
- Data quality is crucial for effective MTSS.
- Teachers often lack training in effective instructional practices.
- Best practices should be viewed as good practices.
- Sustaining MTSS requires consistent leadership and support.
- Professional development is essential for teacher effectiveness.
- Collaboration among educators is key to MTSS success.
- Understanding student growth is more important than benchmarks.
- Schools must adapt practices to their unique contexts.
- Building a supportive environment is vital for student success.
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. Ramiro Rubalcaba shares his journey from a teacher's assistant to the superintendent of the Los Nietos School District. He emphasizes the importance of building a legacy in education, creating sustainable systems, and fostering a culture of trust and wellness within the school community. Dr. Rubalcaba discusses strategies for shifting mindsets among educators and the significance of work-life balance for leaders and staff.
Resources:
The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
Superintendents and MTSS Webinar
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Takeaways
- The greatest legacy is building leaders who can sustain the work.
- Effective leadership is about service, not power.
- Creating a positive culture is essential for organizational success.
- Trust is either present or absent; there's no in-between.
- High expectations are necessary for excellence in education.
- Wellness initiatives are crucial for staff and student success.
- Systems and processes must align with desired outcomes.
- Engaging families in decision-making strengthens the community.
- Leaders must delegate and trust their teams to innovate.
- Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations is key.
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, Larissa and Ashlie Cox discuss the myth that more homework leads to more learning. They explore the purpose of homework, the impact of excessive assignments on students, and the equity challenges faced by those without resources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of meaningful homework that has a clear purpose and relates to real-world applications, while also providing alternatives to traditional homework. The conversation concludes with advice for educators and parents on how to approach homework in a way that supports student learning without causing stress.
Resources:
Article: Student Engagement: Why it’s Important and How to Promote it
Article: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS Tier
Core Instruction Guide
Takeaways:
- More homework doesn't necessarily lead to more learning.
- Homework should have a clear purpose and be minimal.
- Excessive homework can lead to student burnout and stress.
- Equity issues arise when homework requires resources not all students have.
- Meaningful homework should relate to real-world applications.
- Busy work does not teach discipline or reinforce learning.
- Parents often expect homework as a sign of learning.
- Teachers should consider the time students have for homework.
- Alternatives to traditional homework can enhance engagement.
- Rethinking homework can improve student 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!
In this episode, Larissa discusses the transformative potential of the MTSS framework in schools. She emphasizes the importance of building a shared vision among staff, engaging them in the process, and leading with purpose. The conversation covers practical strategies for implementing MTSS, including gradual rollouts, celebrating progress, and empowering teachers to take leadership roles. Larissa shares real-life examples and actionable insights to help leaders foster a collaborative culture that supports every student's success.
Resources:
Slide Template: Introducing MTSS to Your Team
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS is a framework designed to meet the needs of all students.
- Leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of MTSS.
- Buy-in from the team starts with understanding the 'why'.
- Connecting MTSS to shared values can enhance engagement.
- A phased rollout of MTSS helps reduce resistance.
- Modeling vulnerability as a leader builds trust.
- Celebrating small wins keeps morale high.
- Empowering teachers fosters ownership and investment.
- Creating leadership teams can bridge gaps between staff and administration.
- MTSS is an opportunity to strengthen the school community.
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!
This conversation with author Mitch Weathers, delves into the concept of executive functioning in education, emphasizing its importance for student success. The speakers discuss the challenges students face in managing their time and tasks, the significance of establishing routines, and the need for educators to explicitly teach executive functioning skills. They highlight the role of working memory in learning and the impact of a supportive and predictable learning environment. The discussion also touches on the importance of collective efficacy among educators to create a cohesive approach to teaching and learning.
Resources:
Executive Function Toolkit
Executive Function in MTSS
Organized Binder
Webinar: Ask the Author: Executive Functioning in Every Classroom
Takeaways:
- Executive functioning is crucial for goal-oriented behavior.
- Students need explicit instruction on executive functioning skills.
- The hidden curriculum can significantly impact student success.
- Predictability in routines helps students feel safe and engaged.
- Working memory is the engine for learning and retention.
- Collective efficacy among educators enhances student outcomes.
- Teaching skills should be a universal approach, not just for struggling students.
- Repetition and practice are key to mastering executive functioning skills.
- Creating a supportive learning environment reduces cognitive load.
- Students can transfer executive functioning skills to real-world situations.
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, Larissa and Joyce Abbott discuss the impact of the TV show Abbott Elementary on the perception of educators, Joyce's personal experiences as a teacher, and the importance of community, teamwork, and effective communication in education. They explore the challenges teachers face, including student behavior and burnout, while emphasizing the rewarding nature of teaching and the need for support within the profession.
Resources:
Teaching the Ms. Abbott Way
Ms. Abbott's Website
Classroom Management Is Much More Than Discipline
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Takeaways:
- Joyce Abbott's experiences as a teacher inspired the show Abbott Elementary.
- Writing a book allowed Joyce to reflect deeply on her teaching career.
- Teaching involves understanding students' backgrounds and building relationships.
- Effective teaching goes beyond instruction; it requires holistically addressing students' needs.
- Teamwork among educators is crucial for student success.
- Communication with students should be conversational, allowing their voices to be heard.
- Building community partnerships enhances the educational experience for students.
- Teacher burnout is a significant issue that requires support and understanding.
- Teaching is a calling that can change lives, one student at a time.
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, Larissa and Sandra discuss essential back-to-school strategies for educators and school leaders. They emphasize the excitement of a new school year, the importance of setting a positive tone, and the need for clear communication and visibility in leadership. They also highlight the significance of building relationships and support systems among staff, the necessity of meaningful professional development, and the role of feedback in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The discussion provides practical tips and insights for creating a successful school year.
Resources:
Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Ebook
Takeaways:
- The excitement of a new school year brings fresh opportunities.
- Showing value to staff and students is crucial for success.
- Clear expectations help prioritize important goals.
- Effective communication reduces stress and fosters collaboration.
- Visibility and approachability of leaders enhance school culture.
- Building relationships among staff supports a positive environment.
- Professional development should be meaningful and relevant.
- Feedback should be constructive and promote growth.
- Creating a culture of continuous improvement benefits everyone.
- Leaders should focus on one goal at a time to avoid overwhelm.
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!
This conversation delves into the importance of foundational reading skills and the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework in education. It highlights the critical components of reading, the challenges faced by students, and innovative strategies educators can employ to enhance reading proficiency. The discussion emphasizes the need for tailored support and the role of technology in transforming reading instruction.
Resources:
Addressing Foundational Reading Skills with MTSS
3 Tips for an Effective Secondary School Literacy Plan
A Guide to Finding and Using Evidence-Based MTSS Interventions
Supporting Early Literacy and Dyslexia Within an MTSS Practice
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Foundational reading skills are essential for future learning.
- MTSS provides a structured framework for supporting students.
- Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension are key components.
- Real-life examples, like Anna's story, illustrate the impact of targeted interventions.
- Engaging core instruction is crucial for all students.
- Small group interventions can effectively address specific gaps.
- AI tools can enhance reading comprehension and engagement.
- Collaboration and resource sharing among educators are vital.
- Celebrating literacy within schools fosters a positive reading culture.
- Addressing foundational skills is necessary at all educational levels.
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, Larissa and Trudy Bender explore the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of consequences in behavior management. They discuss the balance between accountability and empathy in educational settings, the role of natural consequences, and the significance of restorative practices. The conversation highlights the need for clear expectations, data collection, and meaningful interventions to effectively support student behavior.
Resources:
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
PBIS: More than Points and Parties
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, applying MTSS to behavior.
- A common myth is that PBIS means no consequences, which is misleading.
- Consequences are essential for teaching students about their actions.
- Natural consequences help students understand the impact of their behavior.
- Restorative practices should include meaningful consequences for wrongdoings.
- Accountability and empathy can coexist in educational settings.
- Teachers must balance discipline with understanding of student backgrounds.
- Data collection is a vital intervention strategy for behavior management.
- Positive reinforcement is the strongest tool in shaping behavior.
- PBIS should be part of a larger system of interventions, not a standalone solution.
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, Taren Hendricks and Dr. Kelsey Walker share their experiences and insights on implementing Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and literacy initiatives in Goshen County Schools. They discuss the unique challenges and successes of working in a rural educational setting, and highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making and professional development.
Resources:
Reading in the Brain: The New Science of How We Read (Dehaene, 2010)
The Reading League’s summer book study
- Effective Universal Instruction (Gibbons et al., 2018)
- MTSS for Reading Improvement (Brown & Stollar, 2025)
MTSS Coach PLC
- Untangling Data-Based Decision Making (Harlacher et al., 2024)
- Intervention Central: Response to Intervention resources
WDE’s Wyoming MTSS Center
Resources & professional development
- AIR’s MTSS Center resources
MTSS and Science of Reading Article
MTSS Coaching Toolkit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS Implementation: The importance of a structured, system-wide approach to implementing MTSS to ensure consistent support across diverse educational settings.
- Data Utilization: How centralized data systems can enhance decision-making processes and improve student outcomes by providing clear insights into student progress and needs.
- Professional Development: The effectiveness of phased training and the application of adult learning theory in fostering teacher growth and improving instructional practices.
- Shared Leadership: The role of collaborative leadership in driving educational change and ensuring the sustainability of new initiatives.
- Teacher Support: The need for ongoing support and resources for teachers to effectively implement MTSS and adapt to new educational strategies.
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!
This episode of School and Around dives into the critical topic of threat assessments in schools, particularly in relation to Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). The conversation features experts Dr. Dewey Coronel and Dr. Ellina Xiong, who discuss the importance of a systematic approach to threat assessments, the need for multidisciplinary teams, and the role of community engagement in ensuring school safety. They emphasize the significance of psychological safety for students and the necessity of ongoing training for staff involved in threat assessments.
Resources:
Threat Assessment Guide
Webinar on Threat Assessment
Takeaways:
- Threat assessments are essential for preventing school violence.
- A unified team-based approach is crucial for effective threat assessment.
- Most threats reported in schools are not serious and require careful evaluation.
- Community education is vital to differentiate between seeking help and snitching.
- Psychological safety is foundational for a positive learning environment.
- Threat assessment processes should avoid overreaction and underreaction.
- Multidisciplinary teams enhance the effectiveness of threat assessments.
- Regular training and practice for threat assessment teams are necessary.
- Schools should focus on building relationships with students to prevent violence.
- Statistical data shows that school shootings are rare compared to other forms of violence.
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!
This conversation explores the importance of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in preparing students for college and career readiness. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes academic skills, soft skills, career exploration, and civic engagement. The discussion highlights practical steps for implementing MTSS in high schools, focusing on data-driven decision-making, collaboration among educators and families, and the importance of ongoing professional development for teachers.
Resources:
MTSS Meetings Guide
Article: How MTSS Supports College and Career Readiness for All Students
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS provides a proactive and data-driven way to support students.
- College and career readiness is about equipping students with skills and knowledge.
- Readiness varies for each student, requiring multiple pathways.
- Academic skills are foundational but must include transferable skills.
- Soft skills are essential for workplace success and should be integrated into learning.
- Career readiness involves exploration and clear pathways from middle school.
- Civic engagement should be part of the curriculum from the start.
- Data tracking is crucial for identifying student needs early.
- Collaboration among teachers, counselors, and families enhances MTSS effectiveness.
- Ongoing professional development is necessary for teachers to implement MTSS strategies.
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, Larissa and her guest, Christina Solinger, Branching Minds Professional Services Manager, discuss the persistent myth that some students are not academic. They explore the implications of this belief on students' self-perception and learning experiences. Christina emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, the process of learning, and the need for educators to empower students to see themselves as capable learners. The discussion also touches on the pressures faced by teachers and the importance of creating a supportive learning environment that fosters academic identity.
Resources:
Article: The Power of Strength Based Instruction
Article: Supporting Students’ Social, Emotional, & Behavioral Needs: Moving From Referrals to an Interconnected Systems Framework
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The belief that some students aren't academic is a harmful myth.
- Students internalize negative messages about their academic abilities from various sources.
- Growth mindset is crucial for students to understand that learning is a skill that can be developed.
- Learning requires practice and effort, just like any other skill.
- Educators should focus on the process of learning rather than just the outcomes.
- Implicit messages in education can shape students' beliefs about their abilities.
- Creating a supportive environment is essential for students to thrive academically.
- Teachers need to feel empowered to seek help with academic needs, not just behavioral issues.
- Celebrating small wins in learning helps build students' confidence.
- The goal should be to help students develop an identity as learners, not just to keep them calm.
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, educators Ashley Robertson and Emily Jordan discuss the critical role of classroom management in fostering a productive learning environment. They explore the challenges faced by teachers, particularly in the post-COVID landscape, where emotional dysregulation among students has increased. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building relationships, focusing on positive behaviors, and the need for ongoing professional development. They also highlight the role of school leaders in supporting teachers and the evolving nature of classroom management strategies, advocating for a shift from punitive measures to restorative practices that prioritize student well-being.
Resources:
SEL and Behavior Article
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
Article: How to Foster A Sense of Belonging
Takeaways:
- Classroom management is crucial for student success.
- Post-COVID, students are struggling with emotional regulation.
- Building relationships with students enhances classroom management.
- Focusing on positive behaviors can improve classroom dynamics.
- Behavior change requires time and consistent support.
- School leaders play a vital role in setting expectations.
- Professional development is essential for teacher growth.
- Restorative practices are more effective than punitive measures.
- Technology can distract students from learning.
- Classroom management strategies must evolve with changing student needs.
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, Larissa and Maria Kolodziej discuss the role of MTSS coaching in middle schools, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, building effective teams, and addressing both academic and behavioral supports. Maria shares her experiences and challenges in implementing MTSS, highlighting the need for empathy and trust in coaching relationships. They also explore the significance of foundational skills for students and the impact of SEL on student success, concluding with a success story that illustrates the positive outcomes of effective MTSS practices.
Resources:
Article:Best Practices at Tier 1 For the Secondary Level
Article: Implementing MTSS at the Secondary Level: Answering 4 Common Questions
MTSS Coaching Toolkit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Effective coaching is essential for successful MTSS implementation.
- Middle school teachers often lack training in intervention strategies.
- Building trust with teachers is crucial for effective coaching.
- SEL lessons are important but need to be supplemented with small group instruction.
- Teachers must understand that students may lack foundational skills.
- Collaboration with administrators is key to scheduling interventions.
- Empathy is vital in coaching relationships with stressed teachers.
- Success in MTSS may take time and requires a long-term vision.
- Teachers need to shift their mindset to focus on student needs over content standards.
- Small wins in MTSS can lead to greater belief in the process.
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, we explore how school and district leaders can effectively wrap up the school year with intention, focusing on reflection, celebration, and strategic planning for the future. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balancing these elements to foster a positive environment and prepare for the upcoming year. Key strategies include hosting reflection sessions, celebrating achievements, and initiating forward planning to ensure a smooth transition into the next school year.
Resources:
Finding Balance at the End of the Year
End-of-Year Strategies for MTSS Success
Takeaways:
- The end of the school year is a time for reflection and planning.
- Balance celebration, reflection, and preparation as a leader.
- Guided reflection sessions can drive deeper insights.
- Celebrating wins motivates and energizes teams.
- Recognition can be simple yet impactful.
- Involve students and families in celebrations.
- Strategic planning should begin before the new year starts.
- Reflection sessions can lead to valuable learning opportunities.
- Leadership is about modeling optimism and resilience.
- Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
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!
This podcast episode discusses the importance of creating a comprehensive MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) handbook for K-12 education. It features insights from education leaders who share their experiences in developing and implementing MTSS handbooks in their districts. The conversation covers key components of an effective handbook, the significance of staff roles, data collection strategies, and the challenges faced during implementation. The episode emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the involvement of various stakeholders, including parents, to ensure that every student receives the necessary support for their academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
Resources:
Handbook Resources
MTSS Handbook Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Creating a dynamic MTSS handbook is essential for effective implementation.
- Involving various stakeholders in the handbook development process enhances its effectiveness.
- Regular updates to the handbook are necessary to reflect changing practices and needs.
- Clear roles and responsibilities for staff are crucial for successful MTSS implementation.
- Data collection and progress monitoring are key components of the MTSS process.
- Parent involvement is important in the MTSS framework.
- A user-friendly handbook can significantly improve staff engagement and student support.
- Continuous feedback and adaptation are necessary for the handbook to remain relevant.
- The ultimate goal of MTSS is to ensure every student receives the support they need.
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, Maria Quinones-Ford, an RTI facilitator, discusses the critical role of family engagement in education, particularly within the context of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). She emphasizes the importance of involving parents in their children's education, sharing strategies for fostering family involvement, and addressing challenges faced in engaging diverse families. Maria highlights the need for collaboration between schools and families, cultural sensitivity, and the significance of communication and transparency in building trust and support for student success.
Resources:
MTSS & Families Toolkit
MTSS & Families Article
https://www.languageline.com/
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Family engagement is essential for student success.
- Parents should be active participants in their child's education.
- Engaging families requires creative strategies beyond academics.
- Building relationships with families fosters a supportive environment.
- Cultural sensitivity is crucial in engaging diverse families.
- Virtual meetings can increase parent participation.
- Collaboration among teachers, staff, and families is vital.
- Communication and transparency build trust with parents.
- Community resources can enhance family engagement efforts.
- Every child's educational journey is a collective effort.
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 podcast episode, Larissa and Jenna Davies discuss the implementation of the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) framework in the School District of Manatee County, Florida. Jenna shares her experiences, challenges, and strategies for effectively rolling out MTSS, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement, data-driven decision-making, and building a supportive infrastructure.
Resources:
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
Webinar: Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement
Blog: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for Change
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The importance of authentic conversations in podcasts.
- MTSS is a framework for supporting students academically and behaviorally.
- Stakeholder involvement is crucial for successful MTSS implementation.
- Aligning MTSS practices with school improvement plans is essential.
- Building capacity and infrastructure is key to MTSS success.
- Providing autonomy to schools allows for tailored solutions.
- Continuous improvement is a core principle of MTSS.
- Data-driven decision-making enhances the effectiveness of MTSS.
- Communication with families is vital for student support.
- Celebrating small wins helps maintain momentum in MTSS efforts.
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 challenges of meetings in educational settings and offers actionable strategies to make them more efficient and purposeful. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, facilitation, and follow-up in transforming meetings from time drains into productive sessions. The conversation also highlights the role of the MTSS framework in streamlining meeting processes and provides rapid-fire tips for enhancing meeting effectiveness.
Resources:
MTSS Meetings Guide
Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings
Future of Meetings with AI Article
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Meetings are often seen as a productivity killer in schools.
- 33% of teachers prefer to spend less time in meetings.
- Effective meetings require a clear agenda and purpose.
- The life cycle of a meeting includes planning, facilitation, and follow-up.
- Celebrate successes at the beginning of meetings to boost morale.
- MTSS can help streamline the meeting process.
- Host fewer meetings by using alternative communication methods.
- Rotational facilitation can empower staff and enhance engagement.
- Meetings should finish early if objectives are met.
- Pre-reading materials can save valuable in-person meeting time.
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, Michele James, former instructional coach, and Larissa discuss the critical aspects of supporting new teachers, particularly through the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). They emphasize the importance of building community, providing structured support, and creating a collaborative environment for new educators. The discussion covers strategies for effective onboarding, the significance of mentorship, and the need for ongoing professional development to ensure new teachers feel equipped and confident in their roles.
Resources:
ICEL Questions
RIOT and ICEL Matrix
Admin Guide
Coaching ToolKit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Building community is essential for new teachers' success.
- New teachers often feel overwhelmed, akin to 'drinking out of a fire hose.'
- Orientation should focus on relationship-building rather than just information delivery.
- MTSS implementation requires a clear path and ongoing support.
- Teachers can only handle a limited amount of information at once.
- New teachers should have a seat at the table in collaborative meetings.
- Creating a non-evaluative atmosphere helps new teachers feel safe.
- Asking the right questions can guide productive discussions about student support.
- Planning for professional development is crucial for new teachers.
- Strategic onboarding can significantly impact new teachers' experiences.
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!
*100th Episode* Giveaway Entry Link**
In our 100th episode, Larissa and Jared Scott discuss student mental health, vulnerability, and how student voice is essential in school culture. Jared shares his journey from a shy student to a public speaker and counselor, highlighting the need for authentic connections between educators and students. They talk about the Culture Shift Tour, which helps students take ownership of their school culture and create lasting change through community involvement. The discussion also covers empowering students to voice their needs, the challenges educators face in understanding them, the disconnect between staff perceptions and student realities, the impact of social media on youth, and the anxiety around future planning. They stress the importance of balancing academic and emotional support in schools, turning challenges into growth opportunities, and sharing real stories of change to inspire action.
Resources:
www.jaredscottspeaks.com
The Importance of Engaging Student Voices in MTSS
Mental Health Webinar
SEL Guide
Schoolin' Around Instagram
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Vulnerability can foster connection and understanding.
- Authenticity in educators encourages student engagement.
- Students need to take ownership of their school culture.
- Real change requires consistent and persistent action.
- Community involvement is crucial for lasting change.
- Empowering students can lead to significant cultural shifts. and to identify their needs is crucial.
- Community buy-in enhances educational initiatives.
- Staff perceptions often differ from student realities.
- Social media contributes to youth identity crises.
- Students face anxiety about their future plans.
- Negative emotions can cloud students' vision for the future.
- Educators must balance academic and emotional support.
- Problems in education can lead to innovative solutions.
- Real change requires community and educator collaboration.
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!
*100th Episode* Giveaway Entry Link**
In this discussion, educators Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns share their insights into the education sector, reflecting on their experiences during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and their journey to co-authoring the book Connecting Through Conversation. They underscore the critical role of building meaningful connections in schools and offer practical strategies for de-escalating conflicts and supporting teachers in managing student behavior.
The conversation highlights how emotional connections influence classroom dynamics and why effective communication is essential in education. Erika and Tiffany explore the importance of empathy, emotional regulation, and trust-building in fostering positive learning environments. They provide actionable advice on how educators can manage their emotions to avoid power struggles with students, maintain a constructive atmosphere, and reduce burnout among teachers.
Resources:
MTSS Behavior Resources
Erika and Tiffany's Website www.ConnectingThroughConversation.com
Find Erika and Tiffany on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Youtube
LinkedIn Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns
$50 off online course with code: CTCPODCAST
https://www.connectingthroughconversation.com/transforming-student-behavior
Takeaways:
- Building connections is essential for effective teaching.
- Emotions are contagious in the classroom.
- Behavior referrals can significantly decrease with proper strategies.
- Creating a culture of connection enhances the learning environment. Educators often match students' emotional energy due to mirror neurons.
- Intentional emotional regulation is crucial for educators.
- Building trust is essential for effective teaching and learning.
- Power struggles with students can be avoided through clear communication.
- Offering choices to students can help them feel more in control.
- Educators should model accountability and apologize when necessary.
- Strong relationships are foundational to the MTSS framework.
- Creating a supportive environment helps prevent educator burnout.
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!
This podcast episode discusses the significant challenges of absenteeism in K-12 education, highlighting the efforts of educators at Creekside Early Childhood School in Lakota Local Schoolsin Ohio. The conversation covers various strategies implemented to improve student attendance, including community engagement, communication with parents, and tiered support systems. The speakers emphasize the importance of building relationships with students and families, celebrating attendance successes, and the collaborative efforts of teachers, counselors, and community liaisons to create a supportive environment for students. The episode concludes with reflections on future directions for attendance improvement initiatives.
Resources:
MTSS and Attendance Article
Attendance Webinar
Early Warning System Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Absenteeism is a major challenge in K-12 education.
- Building strong relationships with students and families is crucial.
- Effective communication with parents can enhance attendance.
- Celebration of attendance successes motivates students.
- Tiered support strategies are essential for addressing attendance issues.
- Individualized attendance plans cater to specific student needs.
- Collaboration among educators and support staff is vital.
- Data tracking helps in monitoring attendance improvements.
- Positive reinforcement strategies can significantly impact attendance.
- Community engagement plays a key role in supporting families.
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!
This conversation explores the unique challenges of implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in middle schools. It highlights common mistakes schools make, such as ignoring core instruction and static interventions, and presents effective strategies used by high-performing schools to enhance student support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of flexible intervention systems, strong core instruction, and ongoing teacher development to create a successful MTSS framework.
Resources:
MTSS in Middle School Article
Best Tier 1 Practices for Secondary Article
Core Instruction Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Middle school presents unique challenges for MTSS implementation.
- Ignoring core instruction can lead to ineffective interventions.
- Static interventions can trap students and hinder progress.
- Data should be used for real-time instructional adjustments.
- Collaboration among teachers is essential for effective MTSS.
- High-performing schools prioritize strong tier one instruction.
- Flexible intervention systems allow for better resource use.
- Ongoing teacher development is crucial for MTSS success.
- Creative scheduling can optimize intervention time.
- Empowering educators is key to building effective MTSS systems.
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!
Larissa talks with Joshua Windham, an eighth-grade history teacher, about integrating technology into education to meet diverse student needs. Joshua shares insights on balancing traditional teaching with modern tools, using strategies like gamification and peer feedback to boost engagement and empower students. He also discusses the potential of AI to create personalized learning, the challenges teachers face with new tech, and the increasing demand for tailored learning experiences. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the future of edtech and the need for evolving teaching methods in a digital world.
Resources:
AI for Educators
- MyShortAnswer
- SchoolAi or MagicSchoolAi
- Blooket and GimKit
- PearDeck and EdPuzzle
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Technology should be used intentionally to enhance learning.
- Balancing old school tools with new technology is essential.
- Differentiation is easier with the right tech tools.
- AI tools can simplify lesson planning and assessment.
- Teachers need proper training to effectively use technology.
- The digital divide presents challenges for students' access to technology.
- Adapting teaching methods is essential for student understanding.
- Personalized learning experiences are crucial for student success.
- Immersive learning experiences can enhance historical understanding.
- Teachers must embrace technology to prepare students for the future.
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, Larissa and Farah Assiraj discuss the complexities of implementing and sustaining Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in secondary schools. Farah shares her extensive background in education, emphasizing the importance of student agency and voice in the learning process. They explore strategies for fostering student engagement and the need for educational systems to adapt to the evolving needs of students, particularly in urban settings. The discussion highlights the importance of integrating families and communities into the educational framework to ensure long-term success for all learners. This conversation explores the importance of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in high school education, emphasizing the need for adaptability to meet students' diverse needs.
Resources:
MTSS in High School Article
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
The Importance of Engaging Student Voices in MTSS
Farah Assiraj
Farah's Website
Takeaways:
- Implementing MTSS in secondary schools is complex and urgent.
- Sustainable models require fidelity in implementation.
- Student voice is crucial for effective learning.
- Educational systems must adapt to meet students' needs.
- Rethinking high school models is necessary for future success.
- Building relationships with students fosters engagement. MTSS is essential for addressing diverse student needs.
- Flexibility in scheduling can enhance student support.
- Community partnerships significantly contribute to student success.
- High expectations should be maintained for all students.
- Preventative measures are key to identifying at-risk students early.
- Leadership plays a vital role in effective MTSS implementation.
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, Larissa and Dr. Julie Sauve discuss the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) in education, the challenges faced by educators, and the need to prioritize teacher wellbeing. They highlight how Harmony Academy supports students and teachers with relationship-driven curricula and practical strategies for managing wellbeing in a complex educational system. Julie Sauve emphasizes teacher autonomy, community building, and the role of SEL in creating a positive learning environment. The discussion underscores the importance of intentional teaching practices and integrating SEL to enhance both student and educator wellbeing.
Resources:
Guide for Universal Screening for SEL & Behavior
Common Questions for MTSS & SEL
4 Things That Steal Teachers’ Joy
Harmony Academy
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Teachers can develop emotional regulation skills through training.
- Educators need support from school leaders to thrive.
- Building relationships with students is crucial for effective teaching.
- System-level decisions impact teachers' daily experiences.
- Social-emotional skills are vital for both students and educators. Educators need effective strategies to develop their competencies.
- Teacher autonomy is crucial for effective teaching.
- Building community enhances student and educator well-being.
- Embedding SEL into daily practices is essential.
- Skills should be practiced in relevant contexts.
- Understanding the 'why' behind teaching is important.
- Leaders should create time for educators to explore SEL.
- Collaboration among educators fosters a supportive environment.
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, host Larissa Napolitan discusses the challenges faced by middle and high schools in ensuring that every student receives the necessary support and enrichment. She introduces W.I.N. (What I Need) Time, a flexible, data-driven approach designed to address these challenges by providing tailored interventions and enrichment opportunities. The conversation explores the logistics of implementing WinTime, including creative scheduling and the importance of data in grouping students. Real-world examples illustrate the success of WinTime in various schools, emphasizing the need for intentional planning and engagement to prioritize student needs.
Resources:
Article: Making Time for MTSS Interventions in Secondary School
MTSS Intervention Flowchart Guide
MTSS in High School Article
Takeaways:
- Students often fall through the cracks in education.
- WinTime is a flexible, data-driven approach.
- MTSS can be effectively implemented at the secondary level.
- WinTime allows for tailored interventions and enrichment.
- Creative scheduling is key to implementing WinTime.
- Data is essential for grouping students by need.
- Engagement is crucial for the success of WinTime.
- Celebrating small wins keeps students motivated.
- WinTime uses existing resources to meet student needs.
- Starting small can lead to significant results.
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, Larissa and Paul Young, retired principal and college professor, discuss effective strategies for managing student behavior in elementary schools. Paul shares his experiences as a principal and educator, emphasizing the importance of teaching positive behaviors, creating a supportive school culture, and understanding behavior as a system problem rather than an individual issue. They explore the significance of adult presence in the classroom, preventative strategies for addressing behavior, and the lasting impact educators have on their students' lives.
Resources:
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
Part 1 Tier 3 Behavior Webinar
Paul's Books:
Promoting Positive Behaviors
Promoting Positive Behaviors After School
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Managing a classroom requires a supportive leader.
- Building relationships with students is crucial for engagement.
- Behavior issues should be considered system problems.
- Teaching expectations is essential for student behavior.
- Positive adult presence can deter negative behavior.
- Preventative strategies can reduce the need for discipline.
- School culture significantly impacts student behavior.
- Educators must support each other in their roles.
- Celebrating student successes fosters a positive environment.
- Discipline should focus on teaching, rather than punishment.
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, Larissa and Trudy Bender, school psychologist and Senior Manager of Thought Leaders at Branching Minds, discuss the critical role of behavior documentation in schools, emphasizing its importance for both compliance and effective student intervention. They explore the challenges teachers face with traditional documentation practices, the need for accurate data to inform student outcomes, and strategies to overcome resistance to change. The discussion highlights the need for clear communication and support for teachers to enhance their documentation practices and ultimately improve student behavior and learning environments.
Resources:
EWS Guide
Tier 2 Behavior Guide
MTSS Behavior Resources
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Documentation is crucial for understanding student behavior.
- Teachers often feel frustrated with the documentation process.
- Discipline referrals must be factual and objective.
- Traditional documentation can feel like a compliance task.
- Effective documentation can lead to better student outcomes.
- Collaboration among teachers is essential for effective behavior tracking.
- Behavior data should inform interventions and consequences.
- Clear guidelines help teachers manage classroom behavior.
- Teacher support is vital for effective behavior management.
- Open communication can improve documentation practices.
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, Larissa and her guest, Jackie Reilly, a certified school psychologist and executive function coach, explore the concept of relationship mapping in education, emphasizing its importance in fostering positive connections between students and educators. They discuss practical strategies for implementing relationship mapping in schools, the challenges educators face, and the significance of building relationships beyond the classroom. The discussion highlights the need for a strategic approach to ensure every student has a trusted adult, ultimately aiming to enhance student support and well-being.
Resources:
Nurturing a Sense of Belonging in Schools Webinar
Webinar: Check In Check Out and Beyond: Tier 2 Behavior Interventions That Build Relationships and Foster School Connectedness
Article: How to Foster A Sense of Belonging
Relationship Mapping Article
Takeaways:
- Relationship mapping is a strategic approach to fostering connections.
- Strong relationships are crucial for academic and behavioral success.
- Every student should have a trusted adult in their school.
- Building relationships should be a school-wide initiative, not just a teacher's responsibility.
- Time and resources are essential for effective relationship building.
- Students can identify their own trusted adults and peers.
- Community involvement enhances student support networks.
- Small daily interactions can significantly impact students' lives.
- Teachers should celebrate those who excel in building relationships.
- Implementing relationship mapping can be simple and effective.
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, Larissa and Ellina Xiong, MTSS Lead at Branching Minds, dive into the challenges of implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in schools. They discuss the role of implementation science in creating structured approaches to support student success. Ellina shares her expertise, offering practical tips on effectively implementing MTSS, including the importance of a dedicated team, proper training, clear milestones, and a solid plan. They also address common challenges and stress the need for accessible resources and institutional knowledge to help educators maintain and measure MTSS practices over time.
Resources:
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation
MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article
Article: How To Avoid 6 Potential Pitfalls of MTSS Pilots & New Implementations
Takeaways:
- Implementation science is essential for successful MTSS adoption.
- Training and coaching are necessary for staff to succeed.
- A structured process can simplify the implementation of MTSS.
- Understanding the full continuum of student support is key. There are certain milestones you need to meet before moving to the next stage.
- Implementation science provides a structured process for schools.
- Stages of implementation are not black and white; they ebb and flow.
- It can take five to seven years to achieve full implementation.
- Institutionalizing knowledge is key to sustaining MTSS practices.
- A handbook can help new staff get up to speed on MTSS.
- Clarity in practices is essential for effective implementation.
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!
This episode explores the transformative impact of the science of reading on literacy education, emphasizing the importance of structured literacy and the MTSS framework. It discusses the historical context of reading instruction, the urgency of adopting evidence-based practices, and the challenges educators face in implementing these changes. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and gradual adaptation to improve literacy outcomes for all students.
Resources:
MTSS and Science of Reading Article
Early Literacy Webinar
Early Literacy and Branching Minds Article
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The science of reading is reshaping literacy education.
- Explicit phonics instruction is crucial for all students.
- MTSS provides a structured approach to support literacy.
- Data-driven decisions are essential in MTSS.
- Inequities in education hinder student potential.
- Structured literacy benefits students with dyslexia significantly.
- Change in literacy practices requires patience and reflection.
- Collaboration among educators is key to successful implementation.
- Professional development is vital for teacher preparedness.
- Small, deliberate steps 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 of School and Around, hosts Larissa Napolitan, Karen Hamilton, and Hiral Vekaria discuss the integration of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and special education. They emphasize the importance of viewing all students as part of a unified system of support, where core instruction is accessible to everyone. The conversation covers the challenges of gaining buy-in from educators, addressing inequities in education, and the necessity of concurrent interventions during evaluations. The episode concludes with key takeaways on the sustainability of MTSS practices and the belief that all children can learn with the right support.
Resources:
Special Ed Article
Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success
Are Special Ed and MTSS the Same Thing Episode?
EdHotTake- MTSS Isn't A Waste of Time for Special Education
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS and special education are interwoven systems of support.
- Core instruction must be accessible to all students.
- Buy-in from staff is crucial for systemic change.
- Data-driven decisions are essential for effective interventions.
- Equitable access to education is a fundamental goal.
- Concurrent interventions can occur alongside evaluations.
- Sustainability of MTSS practices requires community involvement.
- All students should be viewed as part of the general education population.
- Leadership must address underlying beliefs about student learning.
- Continuous evaluation and adaptation of systems are necessary.
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!
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In this episode of School and Around, host Larissa Napolitan engages with educators leading the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) work in their districts. The conversation explores the challenges faced in implementing MTSS, including building buy-in, resource limitations, and the need for effective data utilization. Educators share their unique journeys, insights on student-centered support plans, and strategies for effective intervention resources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of monitoring intervention effectiveness, managing time, and prioritizing professional development, all while addressing the realities of limited staff and resources in K-12 education.
Resources:
Middle of the Year Webinar: MTSS Momentum
2024 MTSS Virtual Summit
Middle of Year eBook
Ultimate MTSS Guide
Top 2024 Branching Minds Resources
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS has the potential to transform student support.
- Building stakeholder buy-in is essential for MTSS success.
- Time management is a significant challenge for teachers.
- Quality tier one instruction reduces the need for interventions.
- Professional development must be sustained and relevant.
- Collaboration among educators enhances MTSS implementation.
- Monitoring intervention effectiveness is crucial for student success.
- Tailored support plans are necessary for individual student needs.
- Resource alignment across grades improves data continuity.
- Addressing attendance issues requires a holistic approach.
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!
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In this conversation, Larissa and Maya Gat, Branching Minds CEO, discuss the challenges and uncertainties facing educators as they look ahead to 2025. They reflect on the difficulties of 2024, including budget constraints and the need for innovative solutions. Maya emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, particularly AI, to improve educational practices and support teachers. They share success stories from districts that have embraced these innovations and highlight the critical role of leadership in fostering a positive educational environment. The discussion concludes with an exciting outlook on the developments Branching Minds is working on for the upcoming year.
Resources:
Future of Meetings with AI Article
Top MTSS Resources of 2024
Seriously Better Meetings: Launch Party
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The work continues to be exceedingly hard for educators.
- Budget uncertainty makes the bets we take riskier.
- The longer you spend in struggle, the harder the problems become.
- There's a lot of uncertainty moving into 2025.
- In the uncertainty, there's possibility.
- District leaders are hungry for innovations.
- Teachers deserve cutting-edge technology.
- Teaching is hard work; we need to refill our cup.
- Meetings are extremely expensive in any company.
- We need to be learning from advancements in other places.
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!
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In this episode, Larissa reflects on the challenges and successes faced by education leaders in 2024, focusing on chronic absenteeism, mental health, behavior issues, and the importance of a holistic approach to student success. She emphasizes the significance of building connections with students and families, addressing emotional needs, and creating supportive environments that foster academic achievement. The conversation highlights the impact of leadership in transforming school culture and the lives of students.
Resources:
Middle of Year eBook
EWS Guide
MTSS Behavior Resources
Top MTSS Resources of 2024
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Building relationships with families is crucial for improving attendance.
- Mental health support is essential for student success.
- Behavior issues often stem from deeper emotional or academic needs.
- Shifting the perspective from 'what's wrong' to 'what happened' is vital.
- Teaching emotional regulation equips students for life.
- A holistic approach to education unlocks academic potential.
- Success stories demonstrate the impact of focused leadership.
- Every small effort contributes to long-term progress.
- Leaders play a key role in changing lives and school culture.
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, host Larissa Napolitan engages with a panel of experts to discuss the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in K-12 education. Guests include Karen Castle, Director Emeritus of Professional Services at Branching Minds, Dr. Mary O’Meara is the Superintendent of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District in New York, and Dr. Barbara Jenkins, A highly recognized education leader, Florida Superintendent of the Year in 2017 and a top finalist for the national title.
The conversation covers the importance of aligning MTSS with district strategic plans, the role of data in driving educational outcomes, and the necessity of collaboration among educators. The panelists share their experiences in building a comprehensive MTSS framework, fostering buy-in from staff, and the critical role of leadership in ensuring the success of MTSS initiatives. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of setting clear adoption milestones and the necessity of continuous progress monitoring in educational settings. They emphasize the need for a living strategic plan that includes regular check-ins and adjustments based on data. Finally, the speakers address the importance of discipline in educational leadership, focusing on data-driven decision-making and purposeful abandonment of ineffective initiatives.
Resources:
The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
Superintendents and MTSS Article
Superintendents and MTSS Webinar
2024 Listener Survey
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS should be integrated into the district's strategic plan.
- Collaboration among teachers enhances the effectiveness of MTSS.
- Leadership from the superintendent is crucial for MTSS success.
- Professional development is necessary for staff to understand MTSS.
- A comprehensive MTSS plan should address all student needs.
- MTSS is a long-term commitment, not a quick fix.
- Creating a culture of support benefits both students and educators. Strategic planning should include a live dashboard for tracking progress.
- Continuous improvement is essential for both student outcomes and organizational success.
- Communication plans must be intentional and clear to ensure alignment.
- Data-driven decision-making is vital in K-12 education.
- Purposeful abandonment of ineffective initiatives is necessary for progress.
- Setting clear goals helps in aligning efforts across the district.
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!
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Episode Description:
In this conversation, Mitch Weathers, teacher, author and creator of Organize Binder, discusses the critical role of executive functioning skills in education, particularly for middle and high school students. They explore how these skills impact student success, the importance of routines in the classroom, and the cognitive load that students experience as they transition between different educational environments. Mitch shares his personal experiences as a teacher and the insights he gained about the necessity of teaching organization and self-regulation skills to help students thrive academically and emotionally. In this conversation, Larissa and Mitch Weathers discuss the importance of executive functioning skills in education, how collective teacher efficacy can enhance student outcomes, and the balance between technology and traditional learning methods. Mitch shares insights from his book, 'Executive Functions for Every Classroom,' highlighting practical approaches for teachers to implement these concepts effectively.
Resources:
Organized Binder
Mitch’s Book: Executive Functions for Every Classroom, Grades 3-12: Creating Safe and Predictable Learning Environments
Executive Function Webinar
Executive Function Toolkit
Executive Function in MTSS
Executive Function Blog 2
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Executive functioning skills are essential for student success.
- Organization is a foundational skill that many students lack.
- Students often feel better when they are organized.
- Teaching routines can significantly aid student learning.
- Cognitive load affects students' ability to learn and self-regulate.
- Routines help reduce anxiety during transitions in school.
- Mental calories are a finite resource for students.
- Clarity in expectations can help students thrive in new environments.
- Collective routines among teachers can ease student transitions.
- Collective teacher efficacy significantly impacts student success.
- Routine and clarity in the classroom foster a safe learning environment.
- Modeling executive functioning skills is crucial for student learning.
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, Larissa and Julie Miller-Johnson, Branching Minds Associate Director of Funding and Proposals, discuss the complexities of funding for Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in education. They explore various funding sources, including federal, state, and private grants, and how schools can align their needs with available resources. Julie shares insights on the importance of understanding the nuances of each funding source and the necessity of evidence-based practices in securing funds. Additionally, the conversation addresses the current funding challenges faced by districts, especially in the wake of the ESSER funding cliff, and emphasizes the need for creativity and strategic planning in funding initiatives to support MTSS implementation.
Resources:
Funding Opportunities for MTSS
How Schools Fund MTSS
MTSS Buyer's Guide
Request a consultation
2024 Listener Survey
Takeaways
- Understanding MTSS is crucial for effective funding.
- Federal grants are often rooted in equity.
- State grants vary significantly by region.
- Private funding can be a viable option for smaller districts.
- Evidence-based practices are essential for federal funding.
- Grants often align with legislative initiatives.
- Successful funding strategies involve detailed research and planning. Branching Minds is an evidence-based program that meets federal funding requirements.
- Mixing and matching different funding sources can be beneficial.
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 pressing mental health issues faced by students today, highlighting the need for effective frameworks like MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) to address these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of integrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to create a cohesive environment that supports student well-being. The conversation also covers the significance of assessments and progress monitoring in understanding and supporting students' social-emotional and behavioral needs.
Resources:
SEL and Behavior Article
Tier 1 Behavior Guide
2024 MTSS Virtual Summit
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS frameworks are essential for addressing student needs.
- SEL focuses on developing healthy identities and emotional management.
- PBIS encourages positive behaviors through proactive strategies.
- SEL and PBIS can work together within MTSS.
- Behavior data can inform SEL curriculum implementation.
- Different assessments serve unique purposes in understanding student needs.
- Progress monitoring is crucial for both academic and SEL areas.
- Schools can support both SEL and behavior without choosing one over the other.
- Understanding student strengths and needs leads to better support decisions.
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!
Jessica Orenstein, a behavioral scientist and public health practitioner, joins Larissa Napolitan to discuss the emotional challenges students face as they transition from high school to college. As the Director of Programmatic Partnerships at The Jed Foundation (JED), a leading nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults nationwide, Jessica oversees partnerships and resources that extend JED's school-based programs and directly impact students’ everyday lives. In this conversation, Jessica emphasizes the importance of emotional readiness, the impact of societal pressures on decision-making, and the need for supportive environments so caregivers and educators can show up for students during this exciting yet stressful time. She also shares insights on recognizing signs of emotional distress in students and offers educators strategies to provide support Larissa and Jessica’s conversation emphasizes the importance of normalizing struggles, fostering resilience, and preparing students for emotional transitions, and highlights the need for schools to focus on holistic education, building independence, and developing life skills.
In this episode, you’ll also learn about JED’s Set to Go program, which offers tools to support students, educators, and caregivers in navigating these transitions effectively.
Resources:
Set To Go Resources
The Jed Foundation (JED)
JED Mental Health Resource Center
Blog: The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning in Secondary School
Guide: Guide for Universal Screening for SEL & Behavior
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Students often feel homesickness and loneliness during transitions.
- It's important to normalize changing one's mind about career paths.
- Emotional readiness is crucial for students transitioning to college or the workforce.
- Community building is essential for student well-being.
- Supportive environments can help students thrive emotionally.
- Asking the right questions can guide students in their decision-making.
- Students should be encouraged to prioritize their emotional well-being. Students may not always ask for help, so teachers should anticipate struggles.
- Academic performance can be misleading; high achievers may also struggle.
- Focusing on the holistic side of education is crucial for student success.
- Colleges and jobs offer various resources to assist students in their transition.
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, Larissa and “Coach Rudy” discuss the critical role of emotional intelligence in education, emphasizing the need for students to develop responsibility and prioritization skills. “Coach Rudy” shares insights on effective teaching methods, the importance of leadership in implementing social emotional learning (SEL) programs, and the long-term impact of these skills on students' lives. He highlights the necessity of a coherent narrative and common language across educational settings to ensure the success of SEL initiatives.
Resources:
2024 MTSS Virtual Summit
"Coach Rudy" Website: https://sellaunchpad.com/about/
Social Emotional Learning in Secondary Schools
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Emotional intelligence is crucial for student success.
- Students need to learn responsibility and prioritization skills.
- Proactive skill development can change a child's life.
- Teaching should focus on explicit instruction and practice.
- Leadership plays a vital role in implementing SEL programs.
- Common language across educators enhances SEL effectiveness.
- Curriculum should be research-based and evidence-driven.
- SEL initiatives require support and resources for teachers.
- Success stories demonstrate the impact of SEL on students.
- Building emotional intelligence leads to better academic 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!
In this episode of Schooling Around, host Larissa Napolitan speaks with Sarah Frazelle, Senior Researcher and MTSS Trainer at American Institutes for Research. They discuss the importance of early intervention in education, the role of data in decision-making, and the challenges faced by schools in implementing effective support systems. Sarah emphasizes the need for community involvement, the significance of student voice, and the importance of creating a supportive school environment to enhance student success.
Resources:
EWS Article
MTSS and Attendance Article
Early Warning System Webinar
Request a consultation
2024 MTSS Virtual Summit
Takeaways:
- Every child has the ability to succeed.
- Identifying root causes of student struggles is crucial.
- Data analysis is essential for predicting student outcomes.
- Early warning systems can help intervene before students fall behind.
- Community and parental involvement are key to student success.
- Student voice should be integrated into decision-making processes.
- Creating a supportive school environment enhances student engagement.
- Teachers need to collaborate and communicate effectively.
- Less is more when it comes to data; focus on key indicators.
- Education should be a positive experience for all students.
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, host Larissa speaks with Krissy Martin, the director of MTSS at a school district in North Carolina. They discuss the importance of standard treatment protocols in supporting students with varying needs, the role of teachers in the MTSS process, and the significance of collaboration among educational staff. Krissy shares insights on implementing research-based interventions, the process of intensifying support for students, and success stories from her district that highlight the positive impact of MTSS. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience and continuous improvement in educational practices.
Resources:
2024 MTSS Virtual Summit
MTSS Intervention Flowchart Guide
The MTSS 6 Week Check-In Webinar
NC MTSS Implementation Guide 2.0
Problem Solving Steps and Questions
School-Level Data Analysis Protocol (Template)
- Elementary Math Core Example
- Middle Math Core Example
Tips for Intensifying Instruction at Tier 1
Tips for Intensifying Instruction at Core - Literacy
Tips for Intensifying Core - Math
Tips for Intensifying Attendance Practices
-Elementary Sample Literacy Support Plan
Takeaways:
- Standard treatment protocols simplify the support process for students.
- There is a clear distinction between standard treatment protocols and problem-solving protocols.
- Research-based interventions are essential for addressing student needs.
- Intensifying support is necessary when students do not respond to initial interventions.
- Collaboration among educators enhances the effectiveness of MTSS.
- Success stories demonstrate the positive impact of MTSS on student achievement.
- Continuous monitoring and adjustment are key to effective inter
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 MTSS Simplified episode, Larissa discusses the essential components of effective MTSS intervention plans, focusing on the importance of progress monitoring, establishing data trends, implementing interventions with fidelity, maintaining flexibility, and utilizing data visualization. She emphasizes that regular monitoring and adjustments based on data are crucial for ensuring that intervention plans are effective and responsive to student needs.
Resources:
MTSS Intervention Flowchart Guide
Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit
Article: How to Know if Your Intervention is Working
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Progress monitoring is essential for tracking intervention effectiveness.
- Collect data frequently to catch issues early.
- Establishing data trends requires multiple data points.
- Interventions must be implemented with fidelity to be effective.
- Data visualization helps make progress monitoring actionable.
- Regular adjustments to interventions can lead to better outcomes.
- Communication with parents can enhance student attendance and progress.
- Using the right tools can simplify the monitoring process.
- MTSS is about adapting to meet each student's unique needs.
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, Larissa and Jodee Nelson, teacher and MTSS interventionists, discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding meetings in the education sector. They explore why educators often dislike meetings, the importance of effective practices, and how to create a collaborative environment. They also touch on the potential of AI to enhance meeting efficiency and the significance of fostering a safe space for open dialogue.
Resources:
MTSS Meetings Guide & Toolkit
Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings
Effective Meetings Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Clear agendas and data-driven discussions enhance meeting effectiveness.
- Teachers appreciate options during meetings to reduce decision fatigue.
- Creating a culture of respect and safety improves meeting outcomes.
- Effective meetings require equal voice and active listening from all participants.
- Time management is crucial to respect educators' busy schedules.
- Vulnerability in discussions can lead to more productive outcomes.
- Encouraging quieter members to share can yield profound insights.
- The culture of a school influences the effectiveness of meetings.
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, Connie Rockow, from Oakfield-Alabama School District in New York, discusses the challenges and strategies involved in implementing Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in education. She emphasizes the importance of building momentum, ongoing support, and the need for effective communication and feedback among educators. Connie shares her experiences in leading a small rural school district, highlighting the significance of celebrating small wins and addressing unexpected challenges. She offers valuable leadership advice for sustaining momentum and fostering a collaborative learning environment among teachers.
Resources:
Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation
MTSS Implementation Article
Webinar: Buy-In (in MTSS) is Like Sunscreen
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- A long-term project is like a marathon, requiring sustained momentum.
- Building MTSS involves foundational elements and baby steps.
- Ongoing monitoring and support are crucial for success.
- Celebrating small wins helps maintain motivation.
- Unexpected challenges, like technology issues, can slow progress.
- Feedback and communication are essential for effective implementation.
- Leaders should be vulnerable and learn alongside their teams.
- Establishing a common knowledge base is vital for success.
- Creating a supportive environment encourages open dialogue.
- Leadership requires balancing expectations with a positive approach.
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!
This conversation explores the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in secondary education, specifically at Medina City Schools in Ohio. The discussion highlights the challenges faced, the roles of educators, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. The speakers share their experiences with MTSS, emphasizing the need for systematic support, collaboration among staff, and the integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) into the educational framework. They also provide insights into the progress made and the future goals for improving student outcomes.
Resources:
Early Warning System Webinar
MTSS in High School Article
High School MTSS Article #2
To get a tour of how Branching Minds can help with your high school MTSS, click here: Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS is becoming more common in secondary schools.
- Collaboration among educators is crucial for MTSS success.
- Data collection and analysis are foundational for effective MTSS.
- Social-emotional learning is essential for student engagement.
- Teachers need ongoing professional development to implement MTSS.
- Building relationships with students is key to their success.
- Addressing disproportionality in education is a priority.
- Focusing on one area of improvement at a time is effective.
- Creating a supportive school culture enhances student learning.
- Continuous communication about the purpose of MTSS is necessary.
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 seven guiding principles of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), emphasizing the importance of proactive support for all students, strong leadership, research-based core instruction, effective assessments, clear response protocols, data-driven decision-making, and the continuous learning of educators. Each principle is explored with practical examples and insights to help educators implement MTSS effectively in their classrooms.
Resources:
Ultimate MTSS Guide
7 Guiding Principles of MTSS
Differentiating Your MTSS PD article
Admin Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- MTSS is designed to support all students, not just those struggling.
- Strong leadership is essential for successful MTSS implementation.
- Response protocols clarify how to support students at different tiers.
- Data guides instructional decisions and interventions.
- Confidence in MTSS leads to greater buy-in from teachers.
- MTSS is not just a framework, but a mindset for success.
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, Larissa and Austin Griffith, Senior Product Designer, discuss the use of AI in education and how it is being integrated into the Branching Minds product. They explore various ways AI is currently being used in schools, and touch on the challenges and concerns surrounding AI implementation, including privacy issues and the need for prompt engineering. They highlight the benefits of AI in education, including reducing repetitive tasks, interpreting data, and personalizing learning. They address misconceptions about AI, such as the fear of job replacement and impersonality, emphasizing that AI is a co-pilot and assistant rather than a replacement for human educators. They also discuss the importance of data privacy and the need for thoughtful and useful applications of AI in education.
Resources:
MTSS Meetings Guide & Toolkit
Teacher Workload Webinar
Admin Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- AI is being used in education for various purposes, including essay writing, lesson planning, and content generation.
- Implementing AI in education comes with challenges, such as privacy concerns and the need for prompt engineering.
- AI has the potential to improve efficiency and outcomes in education, but careful consideration and ethical use are necessary. AI has the potential to automate repetitive tasks, interpret data, and personalize learning in education.
- AI is a co-pilot and assistant, not a replacement for human educators.
- Data privacy is a crucial consideration when using AI in education.
- Thoughtful and useful applications of AI can lighten the cognitive load of educators and improve student 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!
In this Ask an Expert episode, Larissa asks Dr. Essie Sutton, Director of Learning Science and Trudy Bender, Senior Manager of Thought Leadership, about the benefits of universal screening for social and emotional needs in schools. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing the social and emotional needs of all students, including those who may fly under the radar. These experts provide recommendations for schools overwhelmed by the number of students needing support, including focusing on tier one interventions, seeking community partnerships, and implementing structured recess programs.
Resources:
Guide for Universal Screening for SEL & Behavior
Common Questions for MTSS & SEL
Tier 2 Behavior Guide
Nurturing a Sense of Belonging in Schools Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Universal screening allows schools to assess the social and emotional needs of all students, providing a more systematic and unbiased approach compared to teacher referrals.
- Transparency and clear communication with parents about the purpose and use of screening data are crucial for building trust and engagement.
- Addressing the social and emotional needs of all students, including those who may fly under the radar, is essential for creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
- When overwhelmed by the number of students needing support, schools can focus on tier one interventions, seek community partnerships, and implement structured recess programs.
- Conducting screening multiple times throughout the year allows schools to track progress, identify patterns, and inform targeted interventions.
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 interviews Christie Creele, the assistant director of MTSS at Garland Independent School District in Texas. They discuss how to set up the school year for successful MTSS implementation. Christie shares insights on creating buy-in, addressing assumptions, and supporting the whole child. She emphasizes the importance of team collaboration, involving all stakeholders, and providing training and support. Christie also talks about the challenges and stages of MTSS implementation and offers practical tips for the first few weeks of school.
Resources:
Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Ebook
Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Webinar
MTSS Meetings Guide & Toolkit
MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Setting up the school year for successful MTSS implementation requires creating buy-in and addressing assumptions.
- Team collaboration and involving all stakeholders are crucial for effective MTSS implementation.
- Providing training and support, as well as clear communication and consistent meetings, are essential for building a robust MTSS system.
- MTSS implementation is an ongoing process that takes time and requires continuous improvement.
- Supporting the whole child and focusing on what's best for students should be the driving force behind MTSS implementation.
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 importance of attendance in schools and how schools can use a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) to address attendance issues. The conversation also highlights concrete examples of attendance interventions, such as mentorship programs, family engagement initiatives, incentive programs, and promoting school connectedness. The episode concludes by recommending additional resources for further exploration of the topic.
Resources:
MTSS and Attendance Article
A Guide to Finding and Using Evidence-Based MTSS Interventions
Attendance Works
Podcast Episode: What Can We Do About Attendance?
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Attendance is crucial for student success, and schools can use a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) to address attendance issues.
- MTSS involves tracking and supporting student attendance through data analysis and early intervention.
- Concrete examples of attendance interventions include mentorship programs, family engagement initiatives, incentive programs, and promoting school connectedness.
- Additional resources, such as Attendance Works and NASP, provide research and strategies for improving student attendance.
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, Larissa interviews Jorge Valenzuela, an educator, coach, speaker, and author, about his journey in the education innovation space. They discuss the importance of collaboration and openness to change in ensuring that all students have the support they need. The conversation explores the concept of instructional innovation and its importance in education. The importance of building a culture of collaboration and the role of shared agreements in fostering innovation are discussed. The need for personalized feedback and the five essential elements of core instruction are also emphasized.
Resources:
Jorge Valenzuela's Website
Books by Jorge
Jorge's Podcast
Teacher Collaboration Article
Tier 1 Core Instruction Article
Core Instruction Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Collaboration and openness to change are essential in providing support for all students in education.
- Being a transformational leader involves having the knowledge and skills to improve in one's craft and helping others do the same.
- Professional development should be led by educators who have firsthand experience with the tools and strategies they teach.
- Innovation in education requires a willingness to take risks and embrace new ideas.
- Action research is an underutilized method for refining teaching practices.
- Building a culture of collaboration and establishing shared agreements are crucial for fostering innovation.
- Personalized feedback and the five essential elements of core instruction are key to supporting teachers.
- Instructional innovation is an ongoing iterative process that requires support and resources from administrators.
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.
In this conversation, Larissa interviews Latresha Wilson, the principal of Tuckaseegee Elementary School in North Carolina, about the school's success in improving kindergarten through third-grade students' reading scores. Latresha shares that the school prioritized early literacy and implemented strategies such as data-driven instruction, independent practice, small group instruction, and academic monitoring. The conversation highlights the importance of high expectations, building relationships, and setting goals for student success.
Resources:
Early Literacy Webinar
Early Literacy and Branching Minds Article
MTSS and Science of Reading Article
Learn more about how Branching Minds can help your early literacy work:Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Early literacy is foundational for student success throughout their educational journey.
- Prioritizing early literacy and implementing effective strategies can lead to significant improvements in reading scores.
- A coaching model with individualized support for teachers can help them pivot and improve their instructional practices.
- Creating a positive and supportive school community based on core values can foster a love of learning and student success.
- Setting high expectations and goals for students can motivate them to achieve and exceed their potential.
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.
Description:
In this episode , the guests discuss the importance of restorative practices in creating a safe and supportive school environment. They explore the concept of a restorative ecosystem, which involves building relationships and addressing the needs of all stakeholders in the school community. The conversation also touches on the role of school-based law enforcement and the Texas School Safety Center in promoting restorative practices. The hosts emphasize the need for an MTSS and the integration of restorative practices at all levels. They discuss how restorative practices can help interrupt the pathway to violence and prevent hopelessness among students. Practical tips for implementing restorative practices are also provided.
Resources:
Restorative Practices Blog
Nurturing a Sense of Belonging in Schools Webinar
Tier 2 Behavior Guide
Tier 3 Behavior Guide
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Restorative practices are essential for creating a safe and supportive school environment.
- A restorative ecosystem involves building relationships and addressing the needs of all stakeholders in the school community.
- School-based law enforcement and the Texas School Safety Center play a crucial role in promoting restorative practices.
- Restorative practices can help interrupt the pathway to violence and prevent hopelessness among students.
- Consequences are important, but restorative practices should not be seen as a replacement for good classroom management and behavior intervention programs.
- Restorative practices provide real-world social skills training and help build empathy among students.
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.
In this episode, Trudy Bender and Angela Watson discuss the challenges of teacher workload and burnout. They explore the contributing factors to teacher frustration and provide practical ideas for managing educator workload. They emphasize the importance of protecting teachers' planning time and creating a culture that values their time and supports their needs. They also discuss the role of technology, particularly AI, in streamlining tasks and reducing workload. The episode highlights the 40-Hour Teacher Work Week program, which offers courses for teachers, instructional coaches, and leaders to help them manage their workload and find sustainable ways to thrive in their roles.
Resources:
Angela Watson's 40-Hour Teacher Workweek
Guide: Admin Guide
Webinar Deprivatizing The Classroom
Podcast Episode: EdHotTake - Is The New Teacher Retention Tool "Stay Interviews?"
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Protecting teachers' planning time is crucial for reducing workload and improving teacher well-being.
- Creating a culture that values teachers' time and supports their needs is essential.
- Being proactive and having a plan can help streamline processes and reduce unnecessary meetings and tasks.
- Technology, such as AI, can be used to automate mundane tasks and save time.
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.
In this episode, Larissa discusses the importance of family involvement in schools and how it can lead to MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) success. She provides five practical tips for enhancing family involvement, including fostering personal relationships, introducing the MTSS framework positively, establishing clear communication protocols, tracking and sharing communication efforts, and empowering students and families through student-led conferences. Larissa emphasizes the impact of increased family engagement on student attendance, engagement, and overall success.
Resources:
MTSS & Families Toolkit
MTSS & Families Article
MTSS & Families Guide
Interested in learning more about Branching Minds:
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Family collaboration and communication are important aspects of a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS).
- Fostering personal relationships with families can lead to better understanding and support for students.
- Introducing the MTSS framework positively can build trust and openness with families.
- Establishing clear communication protocols helps keep everyone on the same page and prevents misunderstandings.
- Tracking and sharing communication efforts ensures collaboration and avoids overwhelming parents.
- Empowering students and families through student-led conferences promotes student ownership of learning.
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.
In this conversation, Larissa and Erica Ilcyn, former middle school special ed teacher, discuss the concept of a feedback hole and how it impacts student engagement. The conversation touches on topics such as the role of emotional safety, the impact of standardized tests, and the importance of modeling resilience and growth mindset as a teacher. The conversation explores the importance of listening to student feedback and the impact it can have on student engagement and learning. The hosts discuss the need for teachers and leaders to actively seek and value student input, and to take action based on that feedback.
Resources:
"Feedback Hole" Article
Student Feedback Article
Student Surveys
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- Creating a safe and supportive learning environment is crucial for student engagement.
- Students need to feel heard, valued, and seen in the classroom.
- Immediate feedback is important for student learning and growth.
- Emotional safety plays a key role in student engagement.
- Modeling resilience and a growth mindset as a teacher can positively impact student engagement. Listening to student feedback and taking action based on that feedback is crucial for student engagement and learning.
- Specific and timely feedback is powerful in supporting student growth and building trust.
- Leaders should actively seek and value feedback from both students and teachers, and take action based on that feedback.
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.
In this episode of the School and Around podcast, Trudy Bender, school pyschologist and Chris Causebrook, District MTSS Specialist, discuss Tier 3 behavior planning in schools. They emphasize the importance of district and campus teams, universal screening for behavior, designated staff and space, and professional development. They also highlight the need for a standard treatment protocol, intervention content designed for schools, and wraparound and mental health support. The episode provides practical tips and resources for implementing tier three behavior intervention in schools.
Resources:
Check out all the resources mentioned in the episode here: Tier 3 Behavior Planning Webinar for Leaders
Other helpful resources:
Behavior Planning Template
Part 1 Tier 3 Behavior Webinar
Part 2 Tier 3 Behavior Webinar
Tier 2 Behavior Guide
Tier 3 Behavior Guide
Learn more about how Branching Minds can help: Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- District and campus teams are crucial for implementing tier three behavior intervention in schools.
- Universal screening for behavior helps identify students who need support.
- Designated staff and space are necessary to provide intensive intervention for tier three behavior.
- Professional development is essential for building the skills and knowledge of staff members.
- A standard treatment protocol and intervention content designed for schools are important for effective behavior intervention.
- Wraparound and mental health support can greatly benefit students with tier three behavior needs.
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.
In this episode, Larissa Napolitan interviews Catherine Cueva, the director of MTSS for the Hempstead Union Free School District in Long Island, New York. They discuss the role of a director of MTSS and the importance of holistic support for all students. Catherine shares her journey with MTSS and emphasizes the need for understanding systems and implementation science.
Resources:
4 Tips for Leading MTSS Article
Capacity Building for MTSS Article
Ultimate MTSS Guide
Mindset Is A Resource Webinar
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The role of a director of MTSS is to ensure that systems and processes are in place to support all students.
- Understanding systems and implementation science is crucial for the effective implementation of MTSS.
- MTSS is a holistic approach that supports students academically, behaviorally, and emotionally.
- Providing support and resources for teachers is essential for the successful implementation of MTSS.
- Continuous reflection and improvement are necessary for effective implementation of MTSS.
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.
In this conversation, Larissa interviews Shannon Thornton from Warrensville, Ohio, about the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in their district. Shannon emphasizes the importance of teacher buy-in and the need for ongoing education and training on MTSS. She also discusses the development of an MTSS handbook to provide a centralized resource for teachers and administrators. In this conversation, Shannon Thornton, a district administrator, discusses the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in her district. She emphasizes the importance of revisiting and updating the MTSS handbook regularly to ensure clarity and address teachers' questions.
Resources:
MTSS Buy-in and Mobilization Guide
Webinar: Buy-In (in MTSS) is Like Sunscreen
MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article
Takeaways:
- Implementing MTSS is a complex task that requires investment in intervention teachers and programs.
- Teacher buy-in is crucial for successful implementation of MTSS.
- Ongoing education and training on MTSS is necessary to ensure understanding and implementation fidelity.
- Implementing MTSS at the secondary level presents unique challenges, including the need for specialized teachers.
- A centralized resource, such as an MTSS handbook, can support teachers and administrators in implementing MTSS effectively. Regularly revisiting and updating the MTSS handbook is crucial for clarity and addressing teachers' questions
- One-on-one meetings with teachers can help identify and address students who are not making adequate progress
- Implementing MTSS can lead to growth and improved outcomes for students
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.
In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Dr. Michael Nagler, discuss the development of the Synergy program, an alternative high school program that offers a different approach to education. The program aims to give students more autonomy and flexibility in their learning, allowing them to pursue their interests and passions. Dr. Nagler emphasizes the importance of helping students understand themselves and what makes them tick, as well as providing opportunities for them to explore different subjects and career paths.
Resources:
The Design Thinking Book by Dr. Nagler
Twitter: @NaglersNotions
MTSS in Alternative Settings Article
The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
Takeaways:
- Helping students understand themselves and what they're interested in is crucial for their educational journey.
- Providing opportunities for students to explore different subjects and career paths can help them discover their passions.
- Schools need to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of students and the world they will graduate into.
- Leaders should embrace a mindset of evolution, not revolution, and be open to feedback and making adjustments to their programs.
- Finding a balance between compliance and giving students the freedom to pursue their interests is key.
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.
In this episode, Toni Liza-Damello, the district MTSS manager for Chicago Public Schools, and Dr. Eva Dundas, the chief academic officer of Branching Minds, discuss the journey of implementing an equitable MTSS system in a large urban district. They highlight the importance of district-wide support and collaboration with various departments, such as social-emotional learning, language and culture, equity, diverse learner support, and college and career readiness. They emphasize the need for a strong foundation in tier one instruction and the use of data to inform support plans.
Resources:
- The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
- SEL Guide
- English Language Learner Article
- Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Takeaways:
- Implementing an equitable MTSS system in a large urban district requires district-wide support and collaboration with various departments.
- A strong foundation in Tier 1 instruction is essential for the success of MTSS.
- Data-driven decision-making is crucial in identifying student needs and informing support plans.
- Challenges in implementing MTSS include staffing, time allocation, resistance to change, and the perception of MTSS as just another district initiative.
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.
In this episode, Larissa interviews Joel Addis, an elementary school principal, about his experiences and strategies for managing the busy role of a school leader. They discuss the misconceptions and how the role of a principal is different than he expected. Joel emphasizes the importance of being instructionally focused. In this conversation, Joel Addis discusses the importance of time tracking and intentionality in school leadership. He shares how using the SAM process (Strategic Action Model) has helped him prioritize and maximize his time as a school leader. He also highlights the importance of being present and engaged with staff and students, as well as the value of distributive leadership. Overall, the conversation explores how effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact school culture and student outcomes.
Resources:
Principal Leadership Article
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
National SAM Organization
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
- The role of a school principal often comes with many responsibilities that are related to managing the day-to-day operations of a school, which can overshadow the instructional aspect of education.
- Being instructionally focused is crucial for principals, as there is a direct correlation between principals who spend a majority of their time on instructional activities and student achievement.
- By tracking and reflecting on how time is spent, principals can make adjustments to ensure that they are effectively prioritizing instructional activities. Time tracking and intentionality are crucial for effective school leadership.
- Distributive leadership eases the burden on leaders and empowers the team.
- Effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact student 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.
Dr. Avis Williams, superintendent of NOLA Public Schools, discusses the district's initiative to address the mental health crisis among students. The district has implemented the 'mental minute' practice, which encourages students and staff to take a minute each day to engage in activities that promote mental well-being, such as reading, journaling, and breathing exercises. Dr. Williams emphasizes the importance of listening to students, using data to guide decision-making, and getting commitment from leaders to prioritize mental health in schools.
Resources:
Mental Health Article
Mental Health Webinar
SEL Guide
nolapublicschools.com
X - DrAvisW
IG and FB - dr.aviswilliams
NOLA-PS Socials:
Facebook @nolapublicschools
IG: @nolaps
YouTube: @nolapublicschools
X: @NOLAPSchools
Takeaways
- Implementing small, digestible practices like the 'mental minute' can help normalize conversations about mental health and make it more feasible for students and staff to engage in self-care.
- Partnerships with community organizations, such as Children's Hospital, can provide additional resources and support for mental health initiatives in schools.
- Listening to students and using data to guide decision-making are essential in addressing the mental health needs of students.
- Getting commitment from leaders and involving stakeholders in the planning and implementation process is crucial for the success of mental health initiatives in schools.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting 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.
In this conversation, Larissa and Britt Shurley discuss the misunderstandings and challenges surrounding MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and special education. They emphasize the importance of using language of inclusivity and ensuring that all students have access to differentiated supports. They also discuss the role of MTSS in the referral process and how it can help identify students who need additional support. They address the frustration and emotions that can arise in these situations and provide strategies for leaders to support their staff. Overall, they highlight the collaborative nature of MTSS and special education and the importance of making informed decisions for students.
Resources:
Special Ed Article
Special Ed/MTSS Guide
MTSS Mini Summit 2024
Request a consultation
Takeaways
- Using language of inclusivity is important when discussing MTSS and special education
- MTSS can help identify students who need additional support
- Leaders should provide solutions and resources to support teachers
- MTSS and special education are collaborative by design
- Teachers should not feel solely responsible for providing all supports
- Services and supports should have an entrance and exit plan
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting the Branching Minds Website or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 ) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Caitlin Crossman, from the Professional Services team, discuss the challenges of implementing MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools and how leaders can prioritize their efforts using the Impact Effort Map. They highlight the importance of focusing on high-impact, low-effort tasks and provide examples of how this tool can be used to streamline the implementation process.
Resources:
Impact Vs Effort Map
Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities
How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Takeaways
- Implementing MTSS can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing tasks using the Impact Effort Map can help leaders focus on high-impact, low-effort activities.
- The Impact Effort Map is a visual tool that allows educators to map out tasks based on their impact and effort required.
- The map helps identify quick wins, major projects, and tasks that can be delegated or scheduled for later.
- Communication and collaboration with stakeholders are essential for successful implementation.
- Leaders should regularly reflect on their priorities and be willing to adapt as needed.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Dr. Mary O'Meara and Ms. Theresa Donahue from Plainview, Old Beth Page in New York, discuss their district's implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). They highlight the community involvement and diversity in their district, emphasizing the importance of supporting every student. The district's theme of 'Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts' aligns well with the goals of MTSS. Implementing MTSS, providing data-driven insights, and supporting the district's community efforts has impacted the superintendent's role. The district has made a cultural shift and a long-term commitment to MTSS, focusing on social-emotional learning (SEL) and equipping teachers with Tier 1 interventions.
Resources:
Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities
Article: How to Build MTSS Efficiency
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Webinar: How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights Buy-In Guide
Learn more about the MTSS platform that Plainview- OBP used to scale their MTSS. Request a consultation
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visitingBranching 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.
In this episode of Schooling Around, Larissa and LaTisha Cole, Branching Minds Professional Service Consultant, discuss the importance of effective professional development in implementing and sustaining MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools. They emphasize the need for educators to have time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies. The conversation explores practical steps and strategies for bridging the gap between theory and application, such as using data to guide professional development, incorporating case studies and surveys, and creating a culture of continuous improvement.
Resources:
Article: One Reason Your MTSS Might Be Failing
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
School Leader Guide to PD
MTSS Mini Summit 2024
Request a consultation
Takeaways
- Effective professional development is crucial for implementing and sustaining MTSS in schools.
- Educators need time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies.
- Data should be used to guide professional development and identify areas of need.
- Bridging the gap between theory and application requires ongoing support and feedback.
- Innovative methods, such as incorporating fun activities and collaborative learning, can enhance professional development.
- Obstacles to high-quality professional development include time constraints and competing initiatives.
- Creating a culture of continuous improvement and celebrating successes can contribute to the sustainability of MTSS implementation.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this episode, Larissa unpacks how co-teaching could make MTSS possible within the secondary classroom. Co-teaching is an inclusive model of instruction that helps serve students with disabilities and students that need more support in the general education classroom. Larissa breaks down how co-teaching benefits each tier of MTSS and tips for leaders in making co-teaching work for teachers.
Resources:
- Co-Teaching Article
- Co-Teaching Observation Checklist
- School Leader Guide to PD
Takeaways
- Co-teaching is a powerful model for serving students with disabilities and students who need more support in the general education classroom.
- Co-teaching allows for differentiation of materials and activities, targeted interventions, and lower student-to-teacher ratios.
- Collaboration and clear roles and responsibilities are key to successful co-teaching.
- Leaders should provide co-planning time, consider personalities when assigning co-teaching partners, offer coaching and professional development, observe and reflect with teachers, and help create clear roles and responsibilities.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Newsletter Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Melissa Harvey, a middle school principal in Texas, shares her strategy of conducting stay interviews with teachers to address teacher retention and build a positive school culture. Stay interviews involve asking high-performing employees why they choose to stay at the school and what they love about it. Melissa also conducts stay interviews with new employees at the 30, 60, and 90-day mark to ensure their satisfaction and retention. By actively listening to teachers and implementing changes based on their feedback, Melissa has created a culture where teachers feel heard, valued, and connected.
Resources:
Webinar:Deprivatizing The Classroom
Guide: Admin Guide
Staff Burnout Article
Takeaways
- Stay interviews are an effective strategy for addressing teacher retention and building a positive school culture.
- Leaders should actively listen to teachers and implement changes based on their feedback.
- Staying in touch with teachers' experiences and making decisions that consider their perspectives is crucial for effective leadership.
- Transparency and communication are key in mitigating misunderstandings and building trust between leaders and teachers.
Sound Bites
"Being an effective, inspiring leader for my teachers means staying in touch with what it's like for them to work in our building and striving to make our school a place they'll never want to leave."
"Having someone that's just there to support and listen and actively working to solve big or small things is really powerful."
"Showing the big picture and the behind-the-scenes impact of decisions can help teachers understand and feel connected to the overall goals of the school."
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, 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.
Our guest, Dr. Janet Wilson, discusses the principles and benefits of high-impact tutoring and how it can be integrated into the school day. She emphasizes the importance of aligning tutoring with classroom instruction and measuring its effectiveness through both quantitative and qualitative data. Dr. Wilson also addresses the challenges of funding and sustainability, highlighting the need for districts to repurpose existing resources and prioritize tutoring as a cost-effective intervention. She shares success stories of districts that have implemented high impact tutoring and discusses the mission of Littera Education in providing affordable and effective tutoring programs.
Resources:
High Impact Tutoring Webinar
Tutoring Article
Littera Education
DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR ACCELERATING STUDENT LEARNING WITH HIGH-IMPACT TUTORING
High-Impact Tutoring | National Student Support Accelerator
Integrating High-Impact Tutoring with Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
Takeaways
- High-impact tutoring is a highly effective intervention that can support students in making significant academic gains.
- Tutoring should be aligned with classroom instruction, and high-quality instructional materials should be used that are consistent with the curriculum.
- Measuring tutoring effectiveness requires quantitative data, such as student progress on standardized tests, and qualitative data, such as improved self-efficacy and transference of skills to the classroom.
- Funding and sustainability of tutoring programs can be achieved by repurposing existing resources and prioritizing tutoring as a cost-effective intervention.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 ) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Dr. Katherine McKnight discusses the challenges and trends in secondary students' literacy. She emphasizes the importance of higher-level questioning and deep comprehension skills. Dr. McKnight also highlights the need for a clearly defined literacy plan and professional development for teachers. Additionally, she addresses the integration of literacy instruction across content areas and the role of school leaders in prioritizing literacy education.
Resources:
EngagingLearners.com
Science of Reading Podcast:
Dr. Katie McKnight on Twitter: https://twitter.com/katiemcknightEL/status/1644067711016751132
Read More here: 5 Practical Reading Comprehension Strategies for Secondary Students
Takeaways:
- Secondary students often struggle with reading comprehension and deep comprehension skills.
- A clearly defined literacy plan and professional development are essential for improving literacy instruction in middle school and high school.
- Integration of literacy instruction across content areas is crucial for deepening understanding and promoting higher-level thinking.
- School leaders should prioritize literacy education and provide the necessary resources and support for teachers.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Newsletter (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 ) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this episode, Larissa discusses how to apply the MTSS mindset to professional development (PD) for adults. She highlights the need for effective PD and many teachers' dissatisfaction with the quality of their learning experiences. Larissa emphasizes the importance of differentiating PD for adult learners and explains how to assess their needs and engage them in their learning. She also explores the concept of flipped learning and how it can maximize the impact of PD sessions. Larissa suggests differentiating PD for different roles within the MTSS process and provides strategies for scaffolding new staff members into the MTSS practice. She concludes by emphasizing the importance of ongoing support and coaching for educators.
Resources:
Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/administrators-guide-supporting-teachers-mtss
Blog: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/adult-learning-theory-mtss-professional-development
Blog: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/4-considerations-for-supporting-educators-in-mtss-professional-development
Webinar: https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/mindset-is-a-resource
Takeaways
- Effective professional development is crucial for supporting teachers and improving student outcomes.
- Differentiate professional development for adult learners based on their needs and preferences.
- Apply the MTSS mindset to professional learning by providing systematic and differentiated PD for educators.
- Scaffold new staff members into the MTSS practice and provide ongoing support and coaching.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website, branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Newsletter (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Larissa and Lindsay discuss the role of arts and elective classes in developing the whole child. They highlight the importance of belonging and connectedness, shared experiences and a sense of responsibility, learning soft skills and reinforcing job skills, overcoming challenges and building resilience, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, and learning life skills and the consequences of choices. They emphasize the significance of electives and arts classes in providing a more robust educational experience and acknowledge the impact of teachers in creating safe spaces for students.Resources:Article: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/4-ways-electives-and-arts-classes-support-mtss Takeaways:--Arts and elective classes provide opportunities for students to work with their creativity, develop self-expression, and foster a sense of belonging.--These classes offer a safe space for students to explore their interests and develop a shared sense of responsibility.--Electives and arts classes help students learn soft skills and reinforce job skills that are important for their future professional lives.--Students in these classes learn to overcome challenges, build resilience, and develop critical thinking and emotional intelligence.--The experiences and skills gained in electives and arts classes contribute to the development of the whole child and should be valued in education.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Dr. Essie Sutton, the Director of Learning Science at Branching Minds, discusses the connection between student mental health and academic performance. It is well-established that these two factors are deeply connected, with poor mental health impacting a student's ability to focus and engage in learning. This relationship is bi-directional, with academic performance also influencing mental health. However, there are barriers to addressing mental health issues in schools, such as limited resources and a focus on academic priorities. Resources:Read-- https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/supporting-students-social-emotional-behavioral-needs-referrals-interconnected-systems-framework Watch-- https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/integrating-mtss-and-mental-health-supports Takeaways:-Student mental health and academic performance are deeply connected, with poor mental health impacting a student's ability to focus and engage in learning.-The relationship between mental health and academic performance is bi-directional, with academic performance also influencing mental health.-Barriers to addressing mental health issues in schools include limited resources and a focus on academic priorities.-Creative approaches like flexible scheduling and wellness centers can help address mental health issues in schools.-Allocating funds for mental health initiatives is crucial, but focusing on implementing one initiative at a time is important for effective implementation.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Lindsey Helton, an elementary school principal, discusses the importance of attendance and shares strategies for addressing attendance issues. She emphasizes the need for a strong home-school connection and student-led conferences to empower students and improve attendance. Lindsey also highlights the challenges of high mobility and the importance of treating people with respect and assuming positive intent. She believes that elementary education is the foundation for future success and encourages schools to focus on getting students on grade level. Resources:Attendance Works: https://www.attendanceworks.org/ Student Led Conferences: https://www.edutopia.org/blog/student-led-conferences-resources-ashley-cronin Additional Reading: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/mtss-in-tracking-and-supporting-student-attendance Takeaways: --Building a strong home-school connection is crucial for addressing attendance issues.--Student-led conferences empower students and improve attendance.--High mobility can be a challenge in addressing attendance.--Treating people with respect and assuming positive intent is foundational to effective leadership.--Elementary education is the foundation for future success and should focus on getting students on grade level.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this episode, host, Larissa, explores the concept of fidelity monitoring in MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). Fidelity monitoring refers to the consistent implementation of interventions and assessments to ensure student progress. Larissa highlights the importance of fidelity in intervention implementation and the challenges that can arise when fidelity is lacking. It also discusses the role of fidelity monitoring at the school level and provides strategies for supporting staff and improving fidelity. Takeaways:Fidelity monitoring is crucial in MTSS to ensure the consistent implementation of interventions and assessments.Common challenges to student progress include selecting the wrong intervention, student absences or behavioral issues, and lack of critical features in intervention implementation.Fidelity monitoring at the school level involves regular observation and feedback, self-evaluation, and reflection.Supporting staff and improving fidelity requires the use of fidelity rubrics, direct observation, and adequate training and follow-up.Resources:MTSS Implementation Fidelity Reference Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-implemetation-fidelity-guide https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-guide Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Whitley, discuss the importance of schools in the community and how educators can lead the transformation of school-community relationships. They emphasize the need for schools to be viewed as community hubs and highlight the impact that can be achieved through shared goals and stakeholder involvement. They also explore specific ways in which schools can engage with the community, such as partnering with local businesses and organizations, hosting events outside of the school building, and leveraging resources like public libraries. The conversation underscores the significance of building strong connections between schools and the community to support the holistic development of students.Takeaways:- Schools should be viewed as community hubs, bringing together various stakeholders and resources to create a sense of partnership and shared goals.- Engaging with the community can have a positive impact on students, families, and educators, fostering a network of support and investment.- Building bridges with the community requires intentional efforts, such as seeking out partnerships, hosting events outside of the school building, and leveraging existing resources.- School culture plays a crucial role in community engagement, and it is important to prioritize the heart work of education alongside curriculum and instruction.Check out these resources:- National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments: Family-School-Community Partnerships: https://bit.ly/3wlqYLx - School-Community Learning Partnerships: Essential to Expanded Learning Success: https://bit.ly/3uI7jor - https://bit.ly/48q4zK2 - Branching Minds Guide for Community and Families: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-guide-for-families Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this episode, Larissa interviews Ashley Pennell, a Senior Customer Success Manager at Branching Minds, about the overlap between MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and special education. They discuss the confusion surrounding these two concepts and how they work together. The conversation concludes with strategies for administrators to help teachers understand the role of special education in the MTSS process.TakeawaysMTSS is a framework for supporting all students and setting up equitable practices, while special education is a service within the MTSS framework.Data analysis plays a crucial role in both MTSS and special education, helping to identify students who may need additional support or evaluation for a disability.Challenges in implementing MTSS as an administrator include the siloed approach to education, lack of universal screening processes, and the need for training and resources.Strategies for administrators include starting with equitable practices like universal screening, utilizing the expertise of special education teachers and school psychologists, and fostering open conversations about MTSS and special education.Check out these resources: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/mtss-special-education https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-sped-guide Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
This episode features the live recording of the Schooling Around podcast with Dr. Judy Elliott and Dr. George Batsche. They discuss trends and challenges in MTSS, empowering teachers, supporting mental health, and implementing MTSS at the secondary level. They emphasize the importance of data-driven decision-making, collective leadership, and collaboration in the MTSS framework. They also highlight the need for student voice and the role of district-level support in implementing effective MTSS practices. The conversation concludes with strategies for addressing initiative fatigue and building trust in the MTSS process. Resource mentioned in the conversation: https://bit.ly/4btu5AQ Takeaways:-Data-driven decision-making and collective leadership are essential in the MTSS framework.-Supporting student mental health and incorporating student voice are crucial for successful MTSS implementation.-Empowering teachers and providing system-level support are key to sustaining MTSS practices.-Implementing MTSS at the secondary level requires schedule adjustments, resource mapping, and early warning systems.-Addressing initiative fatigue involves building trust, starting with data, and taking incremental steps. In implementing MTSS, it is crucial to involve all levels of the educational enterprise in the decision-making process.-MTSS promotes equity by providing differentiated supports for all students.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this conversation, Rachel Butler, Learning Science Content Specialist, discusses the importance of good interventions in the context of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). She emphasizes the need to consider the research behind interventions and recommends using the ESSA tiers of evidence to determine their effectiveness. Rachel also highlights the factors to consider when evaluating intervention research, such as study design, results, sample size, and alignment with the school or district context. She provides resources for finding evidence-based interventions and suggests involving school psychologists in the decision-making process. Takeaways:-Good interventions are essential in MTSS and should be based on research and evidence of effectiveness.-The ESSA tiers of evidence provide a framework for determining the quality and suitability of interventions.-Resources like What Works Clearinghouse and Evidence for ESSA can help educators find evidence-based interventions.Resources: The Jed Foundation: https://jedfoundation.org/?gad_source=1What Works Clearinghouse: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Evidence for ESSA: https://evidenceforessa.org/Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. Timeline:00:46 Importance of Good Interventions01:51 Using ESSA Tiers of Evidence03:27 Factors to Consider in Intervention Research05:05 Resources for Finding Evidence-Based Interventions06:35 Considerations for Choosing Interventions07:21 Utilizing the Expertise of School Psychologists07:52 Specific Interventions: Reciprocal Teaching08:15 Specific Interventions: Customized Self-Correction Checklist12:17 Interventions for Upper Grades13:15 Activity Sets for High School Students14:32 Conclusion
In this episode, Larissa interviews Lisa Marquardt-Krol, an instructional design manager, about professional development (PD). They discuss the importance of case studies in PD and how they help educators put themselves in the shoes of students and practice interventions. They also highlight the need for real-world examples and experiences to make learning sticky and relevant. Lisa emphasizes the importance of assessing educators' ability to execute on learning targets and success criteria through case studies. They also discuss the significance of providing choice and relevance in PD, including for educators in specialized subjects. The episode concludes with a reminder to choose initiatives that apply to everyone and empower educators to gather relevant knowledge.Takeaways:- Case studies are a valuable tool in professional development as they allow educators to put themselves in the shoes of students and practice interventions.- Real-world examples and experiences make learning sticky and relevant, helping educators apply new knowledge in their classrooms.- Assessing educators' ability to execute on learning targets and success criteria through case studies is crucial for effective professional development.- Providing choice and relevance in professional development ensures that educators in all subjects and roles can benefit from the learning experience.Other Resources:https://standards.learningforward.org/ https://csaa.wested.org/resource/learning-progressions-supporting-instruction-and-formative-assessment/ https://needastory.com/ Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to Professional Development01:08 The Importance of Case Studies in Professional Development03:16 Real-World Examples in Professional Learning04:25 Making Learning Sticky05:24 Applying Case Studies in Professional Development07:50 Relevance and Choice in Professional Development09:24 Including All Educators in Professional Development11:28 Choosing Initiatives that Apply to Everyone11:57 Conclusion
In this episode, Larissa Napolitan and Trudy Bender discuss the top concerns for school leaders, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for both students and staff. They emphasize the importance of building a positive school culture and the role of administrators in modeling the behavior they expect from their staff. They also highlight the need for administrators to be present on the ground and understand the challenges faced by teachers. Small gestures of care and concern, such as providing special lunches or allowing teachers to dress comfortably, can make a big difference in improving staff morale. Additionally, seeking feedback from staff through anonymous surveys can help identify areas for improvement and create a more positive work environment.Trudy is the Senior Manager of Thought Leadership Content at Branching Minds, but comes to us as a District MTSS Leader and Behavior Coordinator. She serves the state of Texas as a Restorative Discipline Facilitator. Trudy is a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology and a Nationally Certified School Psychologist.Takeaways-Creating a safe and supportive environment is a top concern for school leaders.-Building a positive school culture is essential for both students and staff.-Administrators should be present on the ground and understand the challenges faced by teachers.-Small gestures of care and concern can make a big difference in improving staff morale.Chapters00:40 Top Concerns for School Leaders02:08 Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment03:01 Building a Positive School Culture04:21 Understanding Teachers' Challenges06:02 The Importance of Being Present08:08 Small Gestures of Care and Concern09:21 Creating Special Moments for Staff10:14 Implementing Small Changes Today15:55 Seeking Feedback from Staff19:25 ConclusionLearn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Season 2: Episode 1This week, we kick off Season 2 with an in-depth interview with the MTSS leaders in Mineola Union Free School district in New York. Their collective leadership approach and their shared MTSS vision have transformed how their district approaches student improvement. Larissa sat down with 3 of their leaders who have spearheaded the work to discuss what worked for them, as well as how their MTSS practice looks at the secondary level. Takeaways:-Making MTSS work K-12 requires the long view, students in 2nd grade will be in middle school and high school.-Your MTSS may never be perfect, but you can always be growing towards a better practice.-Strong leadership and communication are essential for successful MTSS implementation in secondary schools.-Building a strong Tier 1 foundation is crucial for supporting student growth.-Leveraging existing practices and resources can enhance the effectiveness of MTSS in middle and high schools.-Making growth visible and celebrating progress are important for fostering a positive learning environment.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
The school year has its ups and downs, even though the stretch from November to December contains a lot of fun activities, educators are exhausted leaving for Winter Break. Most likely, they might be feeling an undercurrent of a cold or just completely drained.Depending on the year, you might start to wonder if there is another job that doesn’t leave me feeling this exhausted, with nothing left to give my family for the holidays. In today’s episode, host, Larissa shares a few thoughts about teacher well-being and a few tips for setting yourself up for a better year.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In 2022, the national average reading score at both fourth and eighth grade decreased by 3 points compared to 2019. Literacy curriculum is under the microscope, and the Science of Reading has become a hot topic of conversation in school districts nationwide. For this episode, I called on our own Data scientist, Dr. Eva Dundas to ask her about some misconceptions about Science of Reading. We discussed why Science of Reading is about equitable teaching practices and how it can be a foundation that prevents students from struggling later on.Learn more about the Science of Reading from our website:https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/how-does-mtss-connect-with-the-science-of-readingHear more from Dr. Eva Dundas about Dyslexia and preventing reading struggles: https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/identifying-and-supporting-dyslexia-within-mtssLearn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Teachers everywhere are using technology to make their lives easier; instead of relying on students to carry home field trip flyers, they just send an email, instead of hand calculating grades, they can have students take online quizzes and grades automatically import into the gradebook. This is the way it should beBut, why is Tech still sometimes resisted or struggled with?Each week this month we are inviting a guest for a short conversation, diving into misunderstandings around Hot Topics and Tough questions in education. For our second episode, Larissa talks about misunderstandings around technology with former educator, Antonio Jackson, who serves on our Data Implementation team, helping districts implement a system-level technology. Learn more about How Technology can help with MTSS with the BRM platform. http://bit.ly/3Rj3LQL Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Amidst the many opinions swirling around education, navigating the chatter can be dizzying. But fear not! This December, Schoolin’ Around is here to untangle the web of perspectives. Each week this month, we invited a guest for a short conversation, diving into misunderstandings around Hot Topics and Tough questions in education. For our first episode of this series, Larissa chats with our Professional Services team member, Christina Solinger, about supporting behavior needs in schools. To complement this discussion, here are resources shedding light on MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and behavior interventions:Explore MTSS Tier 2 Behavior Intervention Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-tier-2-behavior-intervention-guide Discover insights into Tier 3 Behavior Intervention Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/tier-3-behavior-intervention-guideDive deeper into Tier 3 Behavior Planning and Wraparound Supports: https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/tier-3-behavior-planning-and-wraparound-supportsFor a comprehensive understanding of MTSS and Branching Minds, visit our website at Branchingminds.com. Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Connect and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds for the latest updates.
We are celebrating One Year of 'Schoolin’ Around' by sharing favorite moments from the show over the last year. Host Larissa Napolitan is in the hot seat and joined by Community and Social Media Strategist Melanie Gonzalez. We discuss the collective efficacy magic of MTSS, how to handle deficit-based mindset to build on students’ strengths, the Big Buzz Word of system-level change: BUY-IN, the difference between urgency without movement and Urgency with change and the importance of a systematic approach in MTSSAs we eagerly anticipate Season 2 in January, don’t miss out on our upcoming 4-part Education Tough Question mini-series in December. Join us in this celebratory reflection and exploration of the education landscape, where every episode is a step towards creating a more effective and inclusive learning environment.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
For educational leaders striving to move change initiatives forward, they have to do the work to bring everyone on the same page, which includes having a common language and clear communication.The episode guest, Krissy Martin of Roanoke Rapids School District in North Carolina, talks about the importance of developing a common language as they implemented MTSS, ensuring more consistency in their MTSS practice. In the episode, we dive into specific techniques she developed for effective implementation and what it means to be visible as an administrator.Krissy Martin began her career as a public educator in Halifax County Schools in 2013 as a middle grades English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher. She served as the AVID program coordinator for her school. Krissy began coordinating the Academically & Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program in Weldon City Schools in 2016. She also served as Beginning Teacher Coordinator, Professional Development Coordinator and Interim Director of Curriculum & Instruction and Testing & Accountability for Weldon City Schools. In June 2023, Krissy joined Roanoke Rapids Graded School District as the MTSS/COVID-19 Interventionist Coordinator. Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Every school has its own unique challenges and culture, and when a new initiative such as MTSS comes along, it might seem easier just to replace the old ways with the new ways. However, our guest today, Christine Downing, says that an important aspect of MTSS implementation is to start with examining what aspects of MTSS are already happening and build on those practices.Christine Downing is an educator and leader of 30 years in New Hampshire, often taking on dual roles for small districts, such as a principal and Curriculum Director. She currently serves as Director of Curriculum and Instruction for 3 different districts, helping educators with the resources they need to support students. In this episode, we talk about leveraging resources and the importance of building a teacher toolbox. We also dive into some foundational aspects of a strong MTSS practice. Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Leaders work hard to make their schools great, often facing many challenges, like getting others to agree on what needs to change. Change can be hard, especially within an established school system, with long-held beliefs, traditions, or struggles. In this episode, we discuss why change is so hard and how leaders can build their root cause analysis and strategic thinking skills. Our guest, Simma Reingold, works with schools and leaders all over the country, helping walk teams through the process of large-scale change, whether that is implementing MTSS or a curriculum overhaul.Over the last ten years, as a Strategy and Operations Consultant, Simma has facilitated in-depth strategic planning engagements with Superintendents to radically redesign policies, practices, and organizational structures so that the vision for the future can become a reality today. She specializes in community-centered design, leveraging student and educator feedback to guide district-level decision-making while uncovering new and unique ways to solve persistent challenges. Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In the world of education, every year new initiatives are promised to be the magic bullet that solves all the problems. However, many of those new things don’t last. Educators can be weary of something new. Our guest today understands the hesitancy; however, in her work, Angie Plugge, director of Learning in Waverly, Nebraska, spends her days building an MTSS practice that stays true to its purpose, helping teachers evaluate the impact of core instruction and meet the needs of students. In this episode, Angie and I talk about building an effective MTSS practice, the impact of collective efficacy, and how leaders should strive to be reasonable as they implement new practices and frameworks. Angie brings 23 years of experience leading school and district teams through improvement efforts. She spent her first 19 years working in Title I middle schools as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, where she learned how to set up MTSS systems. She now serves as the Director of Learning in a mid-sized rural district where she supports schools in setting up their MTSS systems. Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Most teachers will tell you that teaching is not just about helping students learn content but about how to think about themselves, the world, and even their place in it. Our guest today, Emily Francis, talks a lot about the power of story and how that can help students find their way, especially if they are immigrant students encountering language and cultural challenges.In today’s episode, Emily and I sat down to discuss the power of stories and how teachers and administrators could reach English Language Learners in powerful ways. Emily Francis is a teacher, author, and speaker excited to talk about the potential of English Language Learners because she knows exactly what they are experiencing. As an immigrant student, she experienced what many students around the country are experiencing. She is passionate about sharing with educators the power that stories can have in unlocking their potential. She even wrote a book about her story and the stories of her students called “If You Only Knew: Letters from an Immigrant Teacher.”Check out her book here: https://a.co/d/8C3GBESCheck out this article about utilizing MTSS to Support English Language Learners: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/mtss-english-language-learners Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Schools around the country are still feeling the effects of interrupted learning and finding their way to help students grow and succeed. Many of those schools know that they can’t go back to the way things were before, and they want to make a change to impact ALL students. For Emily Myers, MTSS Director of Orange County Schools in North Carolina, she desires to lead her team in the work of equitably supporting students through MTSS. In this episode, Emily spoke with us about her journey with MTSS and how her mindset shifted from just identifying students for special education to truly making equity the center of her work. She is kind enough to share a story about how MTSS made a difference for a student very close to her heart.We also talk about how serving students is getting comfortable operating in the messy work of decision-making and doing what’s best for students even when it isn’t always clear. Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In the work of educators, one area that continues to challenge schools is making sure that we are helping students in the best way possible, preventing problems for them further in the future. Now more than ever, educators are looking to researchers to find the most effective interventions and provide them with guidance and what to do with the needs they see in the classroom.
The guest for this episode, Gary Schaffer, is one of those researchers. He is also an author striving to create materials and resources to help educators do their job to the best of their ability and help students succeed. Not only does he have years of experience as a school psychologist and academic, but he also brings the perspective of a student who received special education services.
Growing up as a struggling student with ADHD and a learning disability, Gary Schaffer has dedicated his professional practices and life to helping all learners succeed. Gary received a bachelor’s degree in special education and English and subsequently became a school psychologist and clinical mental health counselor. He has authored three books related to MTSS for SAGE and Routledge Publications entitled: 1) Multi-Tiered Systems of Support: A Practical Guide to Preventative Practice https://a.co/d/bm1XkVT 2) Implementing Universal Social-Emotional Programs is a Step-by-Step Guide for Schools https://a.co/d/bHEJHuB 3) Nuts & Bolts: Multi-Tiered Systems of Support: A Basic Guide to Implementing Preventative Practice in Our Schools https://a.co/d/5e2GYOc
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Any educator will tell you that the first couple of years in a new role is like drinking from a fire hose. There is so much to learn and adapt to, even more so when you are a new principal.
In this episode, Larissa talks with Justin Peterson, an elementary school principal in Broken Bow, Nebraska. He stepped into a new role this year and is not only learning what it means to be a principal but is learning all about how MTSS can help a school meet the needs of students. He was ready to chat about what it means to be a learner somewhere new and how much he loves his job.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
It takes a lot more work and planning to make a large wheel turn, but in Gwinnett County Schools, their team did just that. They have been working hard these last few years, making the wheel of school improvement turn with their strategic work with MTSS, and they are seeing the impact of their efforts.
In this episode, Larissa chats with Dr. Tinisha Parker, Executive Director of Student Services, Dr. Debbie Durrance, Executive Director of Data Governance, and Elizabeth Moore, Director of Instructional Development and Support for Gwinnett County Schools in one of the largest school districts in the country. They share the process of bringing their teams together to truly make a difference for their students and how sometimes the MTSS process requires unlearning before adding anything new. They also share their wisdom for those just beginning the process and share about their work moving forward.
Learn more about making system level change with MTSS. https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-guide https://www.branchingminds.com/branching-minds-solution
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Ocana and Jennifer Sessa from Island Village Montessori, a K-8 charter school in Florida's Sarasota County School system. Jennifer Ocana is the Head of School for Island Village but has been teaching and leading for 20 years in Montessori schools. Jennifer Sessa is the Director of Pupil Support, working with the Special Education staff. We talk about how MTSS and the Montessori philosophy are closely linked and how they lean into differentiated instruction to help meet the needs of their diverse population.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Reading difficulty has an outsized effect on a student's ability to be successful in school and life. In the past few years, more and more states are passing legislation around dyslexia, requiring schools and teachers to have the knowledge and to screen students early.
Dyslexia is “a brain-based learning disability that specifically impairs a person’s reading ability.” Fortunately, research suggests that early identification and intervention for dyslexia prevents further difficulty for the student.
In today’s episode, I sat down with Kristen Beesaw, Assistant Director of Interventions and 504 for Bryan Independent School District. We talked how about misconceptions about dyslexia and how a Multi-Tiered System of Supports can help meet students that are at risk for dyslexia. Kristen was kind enough to share how Bryan is striving to intervene early and implement best practices to support students at risk for dyslexia.
Kristen Beesaw has been in education for 28 years, all with the Bryan Independent School District. She has served as a high school Language Arts teacher for 13 years, then Technology Specialist, Secondary Language Arts Coordinator, and then as Dyslexia Coordinator. Currently, she is the Assistant Director of Interventions & §504, where she oversees MTSS/RtI, Dyslexia, Secondary Reading interventions, the district’s summer programming, and §504.
For more information about dyslexia, check out our recent webinar from with Dr. Eva Dundas. https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/identifying-and-supporting-dyslexia-within-mtss
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
As educators, we know that we cannot control what students bring in with them each day, whether that be academic, behavioral, emotional, or even language learning needs. An educator's job is to support students, helping them feel safe so that they can learn and meet their goals.
This episode is a conversation with Gabi Graham, a former elementary dual language teacher passionate about helping schools support students from other cultures. We talk about how different aspects of student mental health can affect outcomes and how sometimes simple things can make all the difference in helping students feel safe and that they belong, no matter their culture.
Gabi Graham balances the roles of being the mother of 2 sweet girls and a successful sales development representative for Branching Minds. As a former dual language educator and lover of all things EdTech, she can understand user needs daily. She lives in a beautiful west Texas border city where the mountain views are breathtaking, the people are warm, and the tacos are truly the best! Give her a good book on a rainy Texas day and she is sure the be the happiest gal around!
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Karen Castle, veteran educational leader and Executive Director of Professional Learning at Branchign Minds, offers wisdom about wrapping up the school year and questions for leaders to reflect on their MTSS practiceWe also dive into the idea that “Remembering Your Why” is not sufficient with the why and the how of making school transformation. Karen is Executive Director of Professional Learning at Branching Minds, where she leads a team of education consultants to provide guidance and support to schools and districts, as they implement Branching Minds and improve their MTSS practice. Prior to Branching Minds, Karen spent 12 years building a national professional development program for Amplify Education, a leading company in the education technology space. Prior to her work in the edtech space, Karen served as curriculum director, principal, and teacher for several school districts in the North Texas area for 23 years. Karen holds an M.Ed. from the University of North Texas and a Superintendent’s Certification from the University of Texas at Arlington.Check out this blog for more from Karen:https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/5-questions-you-should-be-asking-about-your-mtssLearn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
The guest for this episode, AJ Crabill, advocates for taking risks to find a better way to improve schools and support students. AJ Crabill believes that “Student outcomes don't change until adult behaviors change.” In this conversation with AJ, we talk about his work in helping improve schools and helping schools create student-led restorative circles. Restorative practices focus on resolving conflict, repairing harm, and healing relationships. It is an overarching term referring to strategies that help build community in ways that treat humans with dignity and respect. AJ Crabill serves as Conservator at DeSoto, Texas ISD. During his guidance, DeSoto improved from F ratings in academics, finance, and governance to B ratings. He’s also Faculty at the Leadership Institute of Nevada and Director of Governance at the Council of the Great City Schools. He served as Deputy Commissioner at the Texas Education Agency and spearheaded reforms as board chair of Kansas City Public Schools that doubled the percentage of students who are literate and numerate. Crabill is a recipient of the Education Commission of the State's James Bryant Conant Award.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Part of any good system of support isn’t just reacting to student needs but also being proactive in supporting students at risk. Intervening early can be the best way to prevent students from missing out and falling further behind.One way would be to utilize Early Warning Indicators, such as attendance, behavior, and class grades. These are helpful indicators for identifying students that may need support in the future and allow educators to intervene before a student needs more intense support. In this episode, we talk with Sarah Frazelle, a researcher in Early Warning Indicators. We talk about why getting systematic support is necessary and why teachers might have difficulty taking attendance. Sarah Frazelle is the Director of Early Warning Indicator Systems and MTSS for the Puget Sound Education Service District in Seattle, WA. She has been working on Early Warning Indicator Systems since 2012. In that time, she's moved from the analysis of early warning data to coaching school, district, and state agencies on how to implement these systems most effectively. She has helped support a variety of districts, from small rural districts in Montana to large urban districts like Portland, Oregon, and across multiple states.Resources:Puget Sound Educational Service District- https://www.psesd.org/ Article: https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/mtss-in-tracking-and-supporting-student-attendanceGuide: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-tier-2-behavior-intervention-guide Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Recently it has been reported that more than 80 Percent of U.S. Public Schools say the pandemic has negatively impacted student behavior and socio-emotional development. Our guest today is the perfect person to give us some insight into how the system and school culture can help teachers with these issues. Trudy Bender previously served as the Coordinator of District Behavior Intervention for the Waco Independent School District, where she facilitated the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for Behavior, including initiatives to improve school climate and connection, provide effective Tier 2 and Tier 3 behavior intervention programs, and coordinate wrap-around services and transitional support for students in alternative disciplinary settings. Not only that, but she built a multi-year sequence of teacher training in classroom management, behavior intervention, and peer coaching to help build capacity and collaboration among teachers. Now, she is Branching Minds MTSS Content Manager. But she still serves the state of Texas as a Restorative Discipline Facilitator. Trudy is a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology and a Nationally Certified School Psychologist.Quotes:"So often we wanna chase down where the problems are rather than chasing down where is the student succeeding and how can we multiply and build on that in other contexts. And in behavior, that's really important. If there is a place where that student is finding success, if you can figure out who they're connected to and what kind of structure provides success for them, then you can often bring some of those elements into other places in the school where they're not being as successful.""Behavior is becoming more challenging. But so is our understanding of those behavior challenges and the tools and resources that we have to address those challenges. And MTSS is like the engine that's driving that, that's driving that response to behavior challenges."Resources:•A Tier 2 Behavior Intervention Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-tier-2-behavior-intervention-guide •MTSS Platform Buyer’s Guide: https://www.branchingminds.com/mtss-platform-buyers-guide Check out us out:•Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com•Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) •Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Now more than ever, a spotlight is being shined on our education system. Requiring states to make decisions to help support educators. Schools, teachers, and students need help. In this episode, our two guests are working to connect and build relationships with policymakers, researchers, and those who can help change the system for better student outcomes. Abigail Woodworth, VP of Communications at Branching Minds, and Yoni Doran, Branching Minds Chief Strategic Partnership Officer, have been a part of the company since the beginning and have seen how important it is to help schools and districts not only individually but at the policy level. Abigail Woodworth, VP of Communications, is a seasoned communications professional with over two decades of experience developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that drive organizational growth, building and leading successful teams, and enhancing reputation, reach, and revenues of companies. Prior to joining Branching Minds, she served as VP of External Affairs at the Legal Action Center; VP of Public Affairs at the Treatment Research Institute; and occupied senior management roles at the University of Pennsylvania and The Johns Hopkins University. She earned a BA and an MS in Social Policy from the University of Pennsylvania.Yonatan Doron is the Chief Strategic Partnership Officer at Branching Minds, where he focuses on developing and maintaining long-term relationships with organizations and institutions that further the mission of Branching Minds. Yonatan has been part of the Branching Minds team since 2013, helping the organization expand to over 30 states and serving over 1.5M students nationwide. Prior to Branching Minds, Yonatan worked at the Aspen Institute in Washington, DC, and at the Joyce Foundation in Chicago, IL. Yonatan received his MPP from the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago and B.A. from SUNY Geneseo.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Often, as a teacher using educational technology, I had frustrations about its uses in the classroom, its functionality, and its purpose. I wish I had known our guest back then to discuss how to make technology work FOR me, not against me. In this episode, we talk with Emily-Rose Barry, the VP of Product at Branching Minds. Much like many of our guests, her journey began in the classroom as a student wondering how learning worked. Our conversation covers her accidental journey to her current role and how technology assists educators in doing their job better. Emily-Rose Barry has worked in Education Technology in roles overseeing Product and Customer Success for the past ten years. Before joining the world of agile software development, she taught reading and writing at every level, from early childhood to college, administered special programs for an adult literacy nonprofit, and published short fiction and poetry as a freelance writer. She co-founded ProductTank Buffalo, a local community for networking and professional development.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Recent research around students’ mental and emotional health has revealed a dire need for educational professionals to do something to help. More than 15% of students have had a depressive episode in this last year. And many parents believe their students would benefit from mental health assistance. Our guest today, Dr. Essie Sutton, an applied developmental psychologist, has made it her job to learn more about how social-emotional learning and mental health support can actually help students. In this episode, we discuss how teachers use evidence-based practices in the classroom, the need for a deeper understanding of student wellness, and what she is learning from her work. Essie Sutton is an Applied Developmental Psychologist and the Director of Learning Science at Branching Minds. Her work brings together the fields of Child Development and Education Psychology to improve learning and development for all students. Dr. Sutton is responsible for studying the impacts of the Branching Minds on students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional outcomes. She also leverages MTSS research and best practices to develop and improve the Branching Minds platform.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Have you ever thought about how you can think different thoughts and how your brain works? Beginning from childhood, this week’s guest loved to think about how people think. Dr. Eva Dundas and I sat down to chat about how a Dr. of Developmental and Cognitive Psychology became a Chief Product Officer for an Edtech company.We dive into how she went from being an academic research scientist to seeking a role to apply her knowledge and see research in action. I was most excited to talk with her about why learning science isn’t what some may believe it to be and why teachers should be called Learning Engineers. Dr. Dundas is the Chief Product Officer of Branching Minds, where she pursues her mission to bridge the gap between the science of learning and education practice. At Branching Minds, she develops ways in which teachers can use technology to bring evidence-based strategies and practice into the classroom. Dr. Dundas is widely recognized as a visionary in the fields of developmental cognitive psychology and education technology. Dr. Dundas has a Ph.D. in Developmental and Cognitive Psychology from Carnegie Mellon University, where she conducted research on how the brain develops when children acquire visual expertise for words and faces. Her research also explores how the relationship between neural systems (specifically language and visual processing) unfolds over development and how those dynamics differ with neurodevelopmental disorders like dyslexia and autism. She has published articles on that subject in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuropsychologia, Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, and Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Dr. Dundas also has an M.Ed. in Mind, Brain, and Education from Harvard University; and a B.S. in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://bit.ly/3SgBlXH) Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
The best leaders are the ones that know they can’t be an expert at everything. They often continue to learn and seek out other experts to join their team. In this episode, Part 2 of our conversation with former educator turned Edtech CEO, Maya Gat shares how she continues to lean into the idea of humility and the power of learning. She expands on how she is always a learner and how she translated her skills as a teacher to her role leading a company. Maya is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Branching Minds, where she focuses on building partnerships with districts and product design. She has spent 17 years working with children, youth, and adults as an educator in various capacities both inside and outside of the school system. She has previously taught young children ages 2-3, and students in grades 2-4 in New York City. Maya has also taught English and Mathematics internationally to children, teenagers, and adults in Istanbul, Turkey, and has written math curriculum in Jerusalem, Israel. She led youth advocacy groups in Pennsylvania and directed after-school programs in California, Florida, and New York. Ms. Gat received her M.S. in Childhood and Early Childhood Education from Sarah Lawrence College. She also holds a B.A. in Urban Studies and Fine Arts from the University of Pennsylvania.Quotes:"But I think that for me, the goal is not mastery, the goal is learning, the goal is growth, not attainment, and so it always feels fulfilling to me. I try to find power in vulnerability. I try to find joy in awkwardness. To be a learner is to be at the beginning of that learning journey.""The same things that allow me that allowed me to create an effective classroom community are the same things that allow me to create an effective organizational community."Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.
Every compelling story has an unlikely hero, someone on an adventure to solve a problem, find a treasure, or save the day. For this episode, we have the privilege of hearing one of these great stories. Former teacher Maya Gat shares with us how she became the CEO and Co-Founder of Branching Minds. This episode is part one of the conversation. We cover where it all started, her journey to be a teacher, and what has continued to compel her in her work today. Tune in for part two in a few weeks!Maya is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Branching Minds, where she focuses on building partnerships with districts and product design. She has spent 17 years working with children, youth, and adults as an educator in various capacities both inside and outside of the school system. She has previously taught young children ages 2-3, and students in grades 2-4 in New York City. Maya has also taught English and Mathematics internationally to children, teenagers, and adults in Istanbul, Turkey, and has written a math curriculum in Jerusalem, Israel. She led youth advocacy groups in Pennsylvania and directed after-school programs in California, Florida, and New York. Ms. Gat received her M.S. in Childhood and Early Childhood Education from Sarah Lawrence College. She also holds a B.A. in Urban Studies and Fine Arts from the University of Pennsylvania.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
Since the purpose of this podcast is to bring you conversations with practitioners and experts from the field, to discuss the challenges of supporting students and schools, we had to share a special episode featuring Dr. Alan Coulter and Dr. Eva Dundas. In this episode, originally recorded for our 2022 MTSS Summit, Dr. Eva Dundas, Branching Minds Chief Product Officer, sat down with Dr. Coulter to discuss his experience leading RTI/MTSS as an educator, psychologist, and consultant over the past 50 years.Dr. Coulter is a licensed psychologist and organizational development consultant (Directions & Resources Group), providing technical assistance, professional learning, and executive coaching in school improvement. For more than 52 years, Alan has been an educator involved in school improvement at the local, state, and national levels. Currently, he provides technical assistance in support of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and improvement of results in special education using principles of improvement science and implementation science to states and local schools. He is keenly interested and involved in the design, implementation, and evaluation of efforts to improve results.Dr. Coulter is also a Research Associate at the Center for Applied Research & Educational Improvement (CAREI) collaborating with colleagues in program evaluation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Response to Intervention (RtI), and special education programs. For CAREI, Alan also currently serves on the Intensive Support Team of the Wisconsin Minnesota Comprehensive Center. Alan is a consultant to Com-Link, a firm providing intensive technical assistance to the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education on accountability and improvement of results.Sign up here for the follow-up Q/A webinar with Dr. Coulter on Jan. 19th! (https://bit.ly/3ID1WLQ)Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
We are excited to share our conversation with Tiffany Studivant, who is in her 11th year with Clark County School District in Athens, Georgia. Her energy and enthusiasm for her work are contagious. Tiffany has extensive experience in supporting students and families at the school level as well as supporting building leaders at the district -level. After nine years as an elementary Special Education Teacher and Team leader, Tiffany joined the district’s support staff in her current role. She currently serves as a District MTSS Implementation Specialist, coaching and guiding 14 building-level Elementary MTSS coordinators with the overall implementation of the MTSS framework. Quotes:"It's a team approach, it takes building off others' knowledge and learning from each other to figure out the needs of students.""Shifting that mindset, no, it's not RTI, it's a component of MTSS. Yes, we will intervene as needed. But our goal is getting kids back to tier 1, exhausting everything in Tier 1 before we have these conversations, looking at all the data, the whole child."Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
For our third installment of “Voices from the Field,” we have the opportunity to hear from another excellent educator, Dr. Lydia Williams, from Long Island, New York.Dr. Williams is an educational leader, administrator, and scholar with over 17 years of experience in elementary education. Her prior roles as a classroom teacher, academic intervention specialist, and International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme coordinator have all converged to influence her current work as an MTSS coordinator for the district of North Bellmore in Long Island, New York. In our conversation, we discuss how a Multi-Tiered System of Supports helps provide students with what they need to thrive. Quotes:"For me, it's about finding that confidence in ourselves and our expertise and asking questions and seeking the knowledge. It's about creating opportunities for collaboration because it is so powerful what we can do when we come together.""It's really about using the information to be preventative, so we don't have to end up classifying so many of our students and that we can get them the supports and recognize their needs.""(MTSS) It's a problem-solving process, and it's collaborative.”Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
Continuing our series highlighting “Voices from the Field,” we chatted with another superb educator, Trisha Senne, from Elk Grove Village, Illinois.
Trisha started her career as a special education teacher, then transitioned to be a behavior and learning consultant for the district before landing her current role as the coordinator of assessment & MTSS in the Community Consolidated School District 59. In this episode, we talk about how data collection can impact how a school helps students feel like they belong and how schools and communities can be transformed when there is a solid system or framework in place.
Quotes: “The new “Aha” was really seeing how beyond intervention MTSS is, and how impactful your preventative and proactive approaches at your core really need to be.”
“MTSS is the impact that we have as a system, all the things that we do on a day to day basis, on behalf of students, of course, the assessment, intervention, but its also having a reliable core approach, relationships with families, its communication, all the things that happen from the littlest thing all the way to the biggest.”
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or follow and connect with us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
To kick off our podcast, we are featuring a few remarkable educators in a series called “Voices from the Field.” These are education rockstars, leaders in their school communities, and serving to support students and teachers.
Today, we begin our podcast with Donna Cross, the Director of MTSS and SEL in Evanston Skokie School District 65 in Illinois. We talk about how MTSS or a Multi-Tiered System of Supports can provide students with what they need when they need it. She also shares how her journey began with her childhood experiences and shaped her approach to supporting students.
Quotes:
“MTSS is equity with its workboots on, giving kids what they need when they need it, and how they need it.”- Donna Cross
“You do get burnt out, and you do get exhausted because you are trying to figure it out on your own. When you are a part of a system and structure that is supporting that work, and doing it in a collectivist manner, you aren’t in this by yourself, you have that teacher efficacy.”- Donna Cross
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or connect and follow us on Twitter or Facebook @BranchingMinds.
Don't miss out on our upcoming podcast!
Schoolin' Around is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Branching Minds, featuring prominent leaders, subject-matter experts, and thought innovators with their perspectives on the current challenges facing K-12 education.
Schoolin' Around is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Branching Minds, featuring prominent leaders, subject-matter experts, and thought innovators with their perspectives on the current challenges facing K-12 education.