Use It or Lose It: Invest Funds in What Will Last

As the end of the fiscal year approaches, schools must exhaust allocated funds, whether from local, state, or federal sources. One approach is to view these funds as opportunities for one-time investments that will yield ongoing returns for students. 

Here are some practical ways to invest remaining funds for long-term benefits:

4 Ways to Invest in Your MTSS Work

#1: Professional Development

Retaining skilled educators hinges on administrators offering opportunities for professional growth and development. Research shows that 56% of teachers need better professional learning. (Tripod Education 2024) Channeling resources into high-quality training programs creates ongoing learning and cultivates best practices. Whether focusing on foundational literacy skills or nurturing professional learning communities, targeted investment in professional development empowers educators and enriches their impact on student learning.

For districts prioritizing MTSS initiatives, investing in specialized training for teachers and leaders can yield substantial returns. Deepening expertise in areas such as behavior management and intervention strategies not only benefits participants but also impacts the entire school community.

Offering more than one type of mode of learning is even better. Asynchronous learning is a flexible and accessible option that minimizes cost and logistical hurdles. Tailored to individual pacing and preferences, asynchronous courses ensure uniform dissemination of crucial information, fostering continuous growth among staff members.

#2: Data and Progress Monitoring System

Streamlining data management is crucial for educators seeking to maximize instructional time and efficacy. Research has shown that teachers feel an increasing pressure from the workload of meeting the complexity of learning needs today.  Implementing a Data and Progress Monitoring System, such as Branching Minds MTSS solution, alleviates the burden of data organization and empowers educators to focus on teaching and collaboration.

Efficient data management not only saves time but also facilitates informed decision-making and targeted interventions. Investing in a comprehensive system enhances educators' ability to track student progress effectively, yielding valuable insights for instructional refinement.

#3: Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Infrastructure 

Educators have the immense responsibility to meet diverse student needs on a daily basis. Districts can empower educators to do that work by adopting a system-level framework that embodies data-based decision-making and continuous problem-solving. The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework helps educators identify students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional strengths and challenges and provide differentiated support for students based on their needs. 

A strong foundation is paramount for successful MTSS implementation at the district level. Prioritizing foundational work ensures seamless integration and sustained progress. Investing resources in building MTSS infrastructure involves bringing stakeholders together, providing comprehensive training, and fostering collaborative dialogue to shape a cohesive approach.

#4: Intervention Resources

Conducting a thorough evaluation of existing intervention resources allows districts to reallocate funds strategically. Eliminating outdated or underutilized resources and prioritizing research-based, effective interventions ensures optimal resource allocation and maximizes student outcomes. 

Evaluate the effectiveness and relevance of interventions to guide informed investment decisions that align with district goals and student needs.

Strategic Investment

Regardless of the stage of of school improvement, strategic investment in time, resources, and systems is essential for advancing student success. Investing in a system-level solution that connects all the data, support targeted instruction, and scaffolds teacher’s work so that they can focus on what is important will only strengthen the work moving forward. Supporting high-quality systems is an investment in the future, one that yields dividends for schools, communities, educators, and students alike.

Citation/References:

Tripod Education. 2024. “Big Changes in 2023-2024.” Tripod.com. https://hubs.ly/Q02fGxf60.