Welcome to "Steps Forward," the podcast where we dive deeply into a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for early reading and the transformative power of Implementation Science. Join us as we explore how school districts can effectively implement MTSS frameworks to support the diverse early reading needs of students in our schools.
Episode 8: Strengthening Tier One: Implementing MTSS for Lasting Change
In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Jennie Rider, Supervisor of Curriculum, Instruction, and Intervention at Netcong School District. We discuss the importance of focusing on tier one instruction within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Jennie shares her district's experience transitioning from the Response to Intervention model to MTSS, addressing the challenges of high caseloads in tiered intervention and the absence of a universal screener. Jennie shares practi...
15 Sept 2024
Episode 7: Advancing Literacy Through Tier 1 Core Instruction and Implementation Science
In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Michelle Dudah and Deborah Lynam. Dr. Michelle Duda, founder and president of Implementation Scientists LLC, is a globally recognized expert in implementation science and MTSS. With over 20 years of experience and a track record of driving systemic change in schools and organizations, she’s known for turning research into practice with proven, sustainable results. Dr. Duda has led national and international initiatives, making her a trusted autho...
4 Aug 2024
Episode 6: Optimizing Early Reading Assessments: A Leadership Journey in MTSS Implementation
In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Jaime Doldan, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction at the Township of Franklin Public School District. Join us as we explore the journey of school-based leadership and the importance of assessments within an MTSS framework for early reading. Jaime delves into the assessments used by her district before implementing MTSS, highlighting the challenges faced without precise data. Learn how their leadership team was formed to enhance assessment practices, select reliable screening tools, and address both technical and adaptive challenges.
19 Jul 2024
Episode 5: Unlocking Early Reading Success: The Power of Assessments in MTSS for Early Reading
In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Dr. Adam Lekwa, Assistant Professor at Rutgers University, about the role of assessments within an MTSS framework for early reading. Dr. Lekwa discusses the different types of early reading assessments used in grades K-3, emphasizing the importance of universal screening. He explains the purpose of these assessments, the significance of predictive validity and reliability, and the consequences of using ineffective screeners. Dr. Lekwa also offers practical advice on how districts can analyze and improve their assessment practices to better support early reading outcomes. Join us as we explore the essential components of effective MTSS implementation for educational equity and student success.
Resources:
Tool: NJTSS-ER Universal Screening Quality Evaluation Worksheet (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zU3ztQQ9D2KuvKzabHG_HOQ8OYoShVMvEvzzmNGOuDY/copy) (www.njtss-earlyreading.org (http://www.njtss-earlyreading.org); https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zU3ztQQ9D2KuvKzabHG_HOQ8OYoShVMvEvzzmNGOuDY/copy)
Information on Screening: Academic Screening Tools Chart (https://intensiveintervention.org/resource/academic-screening-tools-chart) (https://intensiveintervention.org/resource/academic-screening-tools-chart)
3 Jul 2024
Episode 4: Navigating Early Literacy Challenges with Coaching and Collaboration
In this episode, Janice McDowell, Instructional Coach and Intervention Coordinator at Wayside Elementary School in the Township of Ocean School District discusses the critical role of instructional coaching in the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for early reading, how instructional coaches support the integration of universal screening, and the important shifts in practice their district made to strengthen tier 1 core instruction to meet the majority of student’s early reading needs.
Key Takeaways:
MTSS for early reading is a collective effort where instructional coaches play an integral role in building competencies in data-based decision-making and early reading instruction.
Successful instructional coaching is strategic and systematic.
Analyzing tier 1 programs and implementation is a critical first step in strengthening tier 1 preventative instruction.
MTSS for early reading is a coordinated effort where educators can “do hard things” for the benefit of the students.
24 Jun 2024
Episode 3: Enhancing Data-Based Decision-Making for Early Reading Through Instructional Coaching in an MTSS Framework
In this episode, Dr. Alexander Kurz, Associate Research Professor in the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University, discusses instructional coaching as a valuable job-embedded professional development mechanism and how engaged leadership teams can leverage important implementation drivers critical for the successful implementation of an instructional coaching model to support MTSS for early reading.
Key Takeaways:
MTSS for early reading is a significant systems change initiative that substantially changes practices and processes.
Teachers need opportunities to build competencies and confidence in MTSS implementation.
Instructional coaching is a key mechanism for providing high-quality professional development to build MTSS for early reading competencies.
The Data-Driven Instruction Coaching Model (DDICM) is a specific instructional coaching model well aligned to MTSS for early reading.
Collective transparency and commitment are critical for MTSS and the implementation of successful instructional coaching.
Resources:
Slide deck: Professional Development and Coaching in Education (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1E7qIPYKYaNFQnNe0bc4-RkA4bNZp4DGN/view?usp=sharing)
Article: A Multidisciplinary Framework of Instructional Coaching (https://drive.google.com/file/d/15_ke0JDZ9Kv6uEYwXnNpQfs8hbURykjO/view?usp=sharing)
Article: Workstyle attributes and their relations to instructional coaching behaviours (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1drZt-Vm0o-NWtGAnDOySTGyTizCQxQ3z/view?usp=sharing)
31 May 2024
Episode 2: Leading the Way: The Critical Role of Leadership Teams in Implementing an MTSS for Early Reading
In this episode, Michelle Shappirio, Supervisor of English Language Arts, Intervention, & Instructional Coaching at the Township of Ocean School District, discusses the critical role the district and building leadership team has in supporting the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for early reading, how universal screening changed the way their district addressed early reading, and other practical insights about navigating the real-world complexities of systems change in schools.
Key Takeaways:
Leadership teams with a shared vision and understanding of MTSS are critical for successful implementation
Universal screening data changes the way districts address early reading, moving from a reactive to a proactive approach
MTSS for early reading starts with strengthening tier 1 instruction
MTSS for early reading is a coordinated effort where students are seen as “our students,” not “my students”
17 May 2024
Episode 1: Getting Started: MTSS for Early Reading
In this episode, Dr. Todd Glover discusses a Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework for addressing early reading, practical strategies for implementing this framework in schools, and the critical role of data in guiding instructional decisions.
Key Takeaways:
MTSS is an antidote to the traditional "wait to fail" model
MTSS starts with ensuring tier 1 instruction is sufficiently meeting the needs of students
Local leadership teams are the foundational driver of implementation success
Data are used to center the student in instructional planning in all tiers of instruction
Resources:
AIR Center on Multi-Tiered System of Supports https://mtss4success.org/
AIR National Center on Intensive Intervention https://www.air.org/centers/national-center-intensive-intervention
USDOE Institute of Education Sciences Practice Guides https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/PracticeGuides
New Jersey Tiered System of Supports for Early Reading https://www.njtss-earlyreading.org/
10 May 2024
Steps Forward Trailer
Welcome to "Steps Forward," the podcast where we explore the transformative power of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for early reading and Implementation Science. Hosted by Gina Mazzariello, an experienced literacy coach, reading specialist, and consultant, this show delves into how school districts can engage in systemic change to support our youngest readers. Tune in for insightful discussions with experts, sharing practical strategies and evidence-based practices for effective MTSS implementation in early reading. Join us as we take a step forward toward educational equity and student success in every episode!
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