Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a framework for enhancing the implementation of evidence-based practices to achieve important outcomes for every student. The MTSS framework builds on a public health approach that focuses on organizing the efforts of adults within systems to be more effective.

MTSS is designed to help schools identify struggling students early and intervene quickly. It focuses on the “whole child.” That means it supports academic growth, but many other areas, too. These include behavior, social and emotional needs, and absenteeism (not attending school).

The following information will provide staff, teachers, principals, parents, and community members an overview of how Flint Community Schools utilizes Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support throughout the school district.

As a response to the Flint Water Crisis and its impact on children and our community, the Flint Community Schools will engage in a system‐wide approach to support the development of the whole child, whole school, and whole community. This support will occur through relationships and accountability, impacting scholars' academic success, behavior, and attendance. Our district will represent an educational family of learners prepared to live, work, and contribute to the community and beyond. This Guidebook focuses on specific staff roles listed below and practiced frameworks, including Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Restorative School Communities, Trauma Sensitive Supports for Students, and Capturing Kids’ Hearts. The purpose of this MTSS program is to positively impact the areas of academics, attendance, and behavior through targeted interventions, based on data‐driven needs. The anticipated results will enhance generational student progress about the goals listed previously.

Mission

The Flint Community Schools’ mission for a district‐wide Multi‐Tiered System of Support is to develop, implement, and sustain a systematic teaching and learning approach to ensure all scholars' success.

Vision

Flint Community School is committed to cultivating a safe, supportive, and welcoming community, which addresses the needs of children in a holistic way. The MTSS team’s vision is to provide a multi‐tiered system of support that impacts the culture and climate of the learning environment through intentional interactions with scholars to promote healthy skills and success.

Values

• Trauma‐Sensitive: Building Resilience and Avoiding Re‐traumatization.

• Strengths‐Based: Identifying and Growing Individual Qualities.

• Respect for the Dignity of Everyone: Resolving Conflict and Preventing Harm.

• Relationship‐Centered: Cultivating and Sustaining Healthy Relationships.

• Service: Meeting the needs of others.

• Community: Collaboration and connection with partnerships.

Goals

• To improve the academics, attendance, and behavior.

• Promote a safe, healthy culture and climate of schools.

• Increase social and emotional learning.

• Identify risk factors, enhance protective factors to reduce trauma.

• Instill a growth mindset.