Steps Forward: MTSS for Early Reading

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 practical insights into managing resistance to change and building a strong team to support high-quality instruction in small school districts. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on navigating curriculum challenges, using data-driven decision-making, and building systems that ensure all students receive the support they need. Regardless of your role in education, this episode is packed with strategies to implement MTSS effectively and build more robust instructional practices in schools.

Episode 7: Advancing Literacy Through Tier 1 Core Instruction and Implementation Science

In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Dr. Michelle Duda 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 authority in the field. Deborah Lynam is a doctoral student in Childhood Studies at Rutgers University-Camden and a graduate assistant for the NJ Tiered System of Supports for Early Reading initiative. With over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, she focuses on literacy, learning disabilities, and education policy. Deborah serves on the Family Engagement Advisory Board for the National Center on Improving Literacy. She has been appointed to various advisory roles, including the US Department of Education’s Regional Advisory Committee. She is a certified Orton-Gillingham teacher, founding member of Decoding Dyslexia - New Jersey, and board member of the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council and The Reading Reading League-New Jersey.  Join us as we explore the critical role of Tier 1 core instruction in advancing early literacy instruction. We explore the importance of defining effective practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for early reading. We delve into the challenges of implementing evidence-based literacy programs at scale, including the need for comprehensive system-level change and how implementation science can guide schools in sustaining these practices. We discuss the role of implementation teams, improvement cycles, and the importance of building resilient systems that can adapt to changes in staff and resources. Join us for an insightful discussion on leveraging implementation science to enhance literacy outcomes in schools. Resources: * New Jersey Tiered System of Supports for Early Reading https://www.njtss-earlyreading.org/ [https://www.njtss-earlyreading.org/] * Active Implementation Frameworks at a Glance [https://drive.google.com/file/d/14UMyGHqIeYBVW-JuRN0O8EeEpC_GeFNd/view?usp=sharing]: A reference or reminder of the 5 Active Implementation Frameworks that can be applied to any organization and any system level (e.g., local, district, state/provincial). * Implementation Science 101: A Brief Overview [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l1pdPXYGzQFl8DLglIJmtZn-nJXBaTPE/view?usp=sharing]: Provides a foundational understanding of implementation science, explaining how it supports the adoption of evidence-based practices in education, including the necessary systems, teams, and processes for achieving sustainable outcomes.

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.

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)

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.