Chapter 9: Implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports in Rural Schools Via a School–University Partnership

An educational cooperative of 12 rural school member districts was awarded a federally funded School Climate Transformation grant designed to improve behavioral outcomes for students. The educational cooperative chose to partner with a local university in implementing the state’s unique model of MTSS (multi-tiered systems of support) designed to target both behavioral and academic student outcomes. Seventeen school sites (two early childhood centers, eleven elementary schools, and four middle schools) participate in the initiative, with an impact on approximately 1,800 kindergarten through eighth grade students. In addition to employing staff as project personnel, graduate students in school psychology from the partnering university (cosupervised by site and university supervisors) are utilized to provide site-level coaching and individual services to students. Over the course of the project, participating schools have made gains on behavioral and academic outcome and fidelity measures and lessons have been learned regarding grant-oriented flexibility, appropriate training and communication for practicum students, and the development of multiple pathways to achieving site-specific success. The remaining 2 years of the project will focus on moving all schools towards full implementation of the MTSS across all domains (behavior, reading, and math) and building sustainability.