MTSS & Rtl
What does MTSS stand for?
Multi-Tiered System of Supports.
What does IEP stand for?
Individualized Education Program.
What is the main purpose of a Section 504 plan?
To provide accommodations and remove barriers so a student with a disability can access education.
Name one role a school counselor can play on an MTSS team
Examples: advocate, collaborator, consultant, data reviewer, or student-support provider.
What does overrepresentation in special education mean?
A student group appears in special education at a higher rate than its representation in the overall school population or disability category.
What is the main purpose of Tier 1 supports?
To provide universal supports and core instruction for all students
What federal law provides special education services to eligible students with disabilities?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA.
A student has diabetes, is on grade level, but needs snacks and nurse access. What support might be considered?
A Section 504 plan may be considered.
Why should a school counselor look at the “whole child” instead of only grades or behavior?
Because family, attendance, emotional, social, environmental, and academic factors may all affect student performance.
Why should school counselors pay attention to patterns of overidentification?
Because bias, inequitable opportunities, or inappropriate referrals can lead to unfair and overly restrictive placements.
A student is struggling academically after Tier 1 support. What is a reasonable next step?
Provide targeted intervention, monitor progress, and review the data.
True or False: A school counselor decides by themselves whether a student qualifies for special education.
False. Eligibility is determined through a team process that includes multiple professionals and the family
True or False: Every student with a 504 plan also has an IEP.
False. A student can receive 504 accommodations without needing special education.
What should a counselor do before assuming a struggling student needs special education?
Review data, interventions, student needs, family input, and collaborate with the school team.
What equity-focused question should a counselor ask when reviewing discipline or special education data?
Are certain student groups being referred, disciplined, or identified at disproportionately high rates?
Why is progress monitoring important in RtI or MTSS?
It helps teams determine whether an intervention is working and whether support should be adjusted.
What does “least restrictive environment” mean in special education?
Students with disabilities should be educated with nondisabled peers as much as appropriate while still receiving needed supports.
What is one key difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specially designed instruction under IDEA; a 504 plan generally provides accommodations for access.
How can a school counselor support families during the referral or intervention process?
By explaining supports clearly, listening to family concerns, encouraging participation, and advocating for equitable access.
How can school counselors help reduce unnecessary special education referrals?
By encouraging appropriate interventions, reviewing data, addressing barriers, and advocating for less restrictive supports when appropriate.