Introduction

Welcome to the Utah Multi-Tiered System of Supports (UMTSS) online course series. This series is designed to help support Utah LEAs by providing the information and guidance needed to establish a tiered framework of supports in academics and behavior. In this course, we will focus on improving school climate through positive behavior support. We will also discuss cultural factors relevant to school climate and how a multi-tiered system of supports for student behavior can be used to create an equitable school environment for all students.

What is UMTSS?

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a framework for implementing systemic, evidence-based practices to maximize student achievement in academics and behavior in preparation for, and leading to, College and Career readiness. The MTSS model includes Universal or Tier I Core instruction, Targeted or Tier II intervention, and Intensive or Tier III levels of support for student academics and behavior. Utah's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (UMTSS) provides leadership and support for Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in sustained implementation of evidence-based practices in a multi-tier framework. UMTSS addresses both academic and behavioral needs of all students through the integration of data, practices, and systems. The coaching and tools provided by UMTSS are intended to guide LEA teams in evaluating and analyzing current practices, establishing supportive infrastructure, and utilizing data to improve student outcomes.

Objectives

At the completion of this course, participants will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and answer the following essential questions:

What benefits does improving school climate and discipline have for students and staff?
What is PBIS?
What are the critical components of PBIS implemented in Tiers 1, 2 and 3?
How is PBIS evaluated?
What is school based mental health?
How does PBIS look the same but different for culturally and linguistically diverse students?

Course Outline

1) School Climate Overview: Improving School Climate and Discipline

2) Overview of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS)

3) PBIS Tier 1: Universal Supports

Primary Prevention: The 4 Pillars of Tier 1
Tier 1 Behavior Interventions

4) Advanced PBIS: Tiers 2 & 3

5) Evaluating PBIS

6) Culturally Responsive PBIS: Considerations for Language and Cultural Diversity

7) Enhancing School Equity and Discipline

8) PBIS and School-Based Mental Health

9) Integrating Systems of Care: Wrap-Around Services