MTSS: A Collaborative Process

We’ll talk about why connecting with families is key, how to involve them in MTSS at your school, and what kinds of questions parents can ask when meeting with the MTSS team. Let's dive in!


First of all, What is MTSS and Why Families are Important

First, let’s break down MTSS. MTSS stands for Multi-Tiered System of Supports, and it’s a framework designed to provide different levels of support to students, both academically and behaviorally, depending on their needs.

But here’s the thing: MTSS works best when the entire team is involved—and that includes families. As educators, we know how important it is to have that strong home-school connection. When families understand and are involved in the process, the chances of success for students are so much higher.


How Educators Can Build Connections with Families

So, how can educators bring families into the MTSS process? It all starts with communication. Reach out early, and often, to build trust. Here are some tips for educators to build meaningful relationships with families:

1. Open Lines of Communication:
Regular updates via phone, email, or a parent portal.
Offer multiple ways for families to connect—through in-person meetings, video calls, or even texts.
  
2. Share Information Early:
Educators should inform families about MTSS early in the year, explaining the process, the supports available, and how it’s designed to help their child.

3. Create a Welcoming Environment: 
Make sure that meetings are family-friendly, held at convenient times, and that parents feel heard and respected. Creating an environment where parents can comfortably ask questions is key.

4. Collaborate on Solutions:
Ensure parents know their insights are valuable, and actively include them in developing and reviewing strategies for their child’s success.

5. Translate Educational Jargon:
Avoid overwhelming families with educational jargon. Use clear language when discussing MTSS tiers, interventions, or progress monitoring.



How Parents Can Be Involved in the MTSS Process

Parents, you play a powerful role in the MTSS process, too! When you’re involved, you can advocate for your child and help support their learning at home. Here are some ways you can participate:

1. Ask Questions at MTSS Meetings
It’s okay to ask for clarification! Here are some questions you might want to ask the MTSS team:
    - What specific interventions or supports are being provided for my child?
    - How is my child's progress being monitored, and how will I be informed?
    - How can I support these interventions at home?
    - Are there ways we can adjust the support if it’s not working for my child?
    - How long will this support be in place before we review it again?

2. Share Your Insights:
You know your child best. Share any observations or concerns you have with the MTSS team. Let them know what’s working at home or any challenges you’re seeing.

3. Stay Involved:
Follow up regularly. Don’t hesitate to ask for updates or request additional meetings if needed. Schools appreciate your involvement because it helps everyone stay aligned on what’s best for your child.

4. Be a Partner in Progress:
Support the strategies that are being used at school by reinforcing them at home. Whether it’s practicing reading strategies, supporting positive behavior, or helping with organizational skills, every bit helps!


How Educators Can Foster a Collaborative Environment in Meetings

It’s important for educators to set the tone in MTSS meetings. Here are some strategies to foster collaboration and make sure that families feel like equal partners in the process:

1. Start with Strengths:
Always begin by highlighting the student’s strengths before diving into areas of need. This helps families feel positive about the meeting and their child’s potential.

2. Use Parent-Friendly Language:
Refrain from overwhelming parents with technical terms. Make sure that the language is accessible and that parents feel comfortable asking questions if they’re unsure of something.

3. Be Solution-Oriented:
Frame challenges as opportunities for growth, and ensure that the team—teachers, administrators, and families—are united in developing solutions.

To wrap up, remember that the MTSS process is not just about teachers or administrators—it’s about creating a team around the student. And families are an essential part of that team.

As educators, we have the opportunity to bring families into the process, and when we do, the results can be transformative for our students. So, whether you’re an educator looking to involve families more deeply or a parent hoping to understand how you can advocate for your child.