The start of a new school year offers leaders a fresh opportunity to reset and implement meaningful changes. After a summer spent reflecting and analyzing data from the previous year, it’s the perfect time to set new goals and chart a clear path forward. To help you kick off the year on the right track, we’ve compiled a selection of resources designed to support your success.
Key Takeaways: MTSS Success During the School Year
- Gauge Staff Readiness: Start the year by understanding where your team needs support.
- Set Shared Expectations: Clearly define MTSS roles and goals to build alignment from day one.
- Lead the Charge: Use focused planning and PD to drive confident, effective implementation.
Surveys to Assess Your Staff's Learning Needs
Understanding your staff’s learning needs is a critical first step in fostering effective MTSS implementation. Staff may require guidance on data usage, intervention strategies, or collaboration techniques. A survey can provide actionable insights into the areas where your team needs support, empowering you to deliver targeted professional development.
Template for Introducing MTSS to Your Team
Building a shared understanding of MTSS within your team is key to its successful adoption. This template serves as a concise, clear resource for introducing MTSS concepts, roles, and expectations to staff members. Use it during team meetings or professional development sessions to ensure everyone starts the year on the same page.
Beginning of the Year MTSS Playbook
The beginning of the year is a pivotal time to set a strong foundation for MTSS. The "Beginning of the Year MTSS Playbook" provides practical strategies, step-by-step guides, and tools to streamline processes and set clear goals. From creating data meetings to refining intervention plans, this eBook is a valuable reference for educators at any stage of MTSS implementation.
Webinars Focused on MTSS Success
Professional development plays a huge role in equipping educators for MTSS success. Webinars such as "Big Bad Data" address common myths and concerns about MTSS data, while sessions like "How to Get Ready for the School Year with MTSS" provide tactical insights for kicking off the academic year. These webinars are designed to provide both clarity and actionable advice.
Podcasts on MTSS Leadership
Leadership is a core driver of successful MTSS initiatives, and the right insights can help you set a productive tone for the year.
The podcast "MTSS Leadership: Setting the Stage for a New School Year" offers actionable advice on fostering collaboration, establishing priorities, and approaching MTSS with confidence. Listen to the podcast and gain fresh perspectives on MTSS leadership.
Also, check out, How to Support New Teachers.
Kick Off the Year With Tools That Make MTSS Work
Implementing MTSS effectively requires preparation, collaboration, and the right tools. By leveraging these resources, school leaders and educators can ensure their teams are equipped to provide students with the multi-tiered supports they need to succeed.
Take the time to explore each of these tools and set your school up for a successful year of MTSS implementation. Remember, preparation today leads to impactful outcomes tomorrow!

About the author
Larissa Napolitan
Larissa Napolitan is the Content Marketing Manager for Branching Minds and the host of Branching Minds' podcast "Schoolin' Around." As a former middle school English teacher and instructional coach, she has over 13 years of experience building systems for improvement, training and coaching teachers in new technology and instructional methods, and leading efforts to build curriculum and literacy initiatives. She holds Masters's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Education Administration from Emporia State University. She is passionate about telling the stories of educators and all that they do to support students.

MTSS Shouldn't Be So Hard
Empower your team with actionable insights that drive success for your students, staff, and school(s).