MTSS and PBIS as One System
MTSS provides the broader framework for supporting all students, while PBIS focuses on the behavioral side of that work. When they are treated as part of one system, schools are better able to connect student behavior, attendance, classroom experience, and academic performance.
Behavior Support by Tier
- Tier 1: Shared expectations, direct teaching, and consistent school-wide routines
- Tier 2: Targeted supports such as check-in/check-out, mentoring, or skill groups
- Tier 3: Individualized planning based on deeper student needs
Best Practices for Bringing Academics and Behavior Together
Schools often separate academic conversations from behavior conversations, even when the two are clearly connected. A student who is overwhelmed academically may act out, and a student who feels disconnected may disengage from learning. Strong MTSS systems look at the whole student and make sure teams are not solving one problem while ignoring the other.
- Use one team process when possible: Shared routines reduce duplication and help staff see the full picture
- Keep expectations visible and teachable: Students benefit when adults are consistent across settings
- Look beyond discipline totals: Patterns by time, setting, or student group usually tell a richer story
- Include family communication: Support is stronger when school and home share the same goals and language