1) What is at the purpose of RTI?

The purpose of RTI is to provide ALL students with the best opportunities to succeed in school, identify students with learning  or behavioral problems, and ensure that they receive appropriate instruction and related supports. The goals of RTI are to:

• Integrate all resources to minimize risk for the long-term negative consequences associated with poor learning or behavioral outcomes.
• Strength the process of appropriate disability identification

An important part of an effective RTI framework is the quality of the primary prevention level (core curriculum). ALL students most receive a rigorousness core curriculum that is culturally and linguistically responsive and aligned to state's standards. This allows teachers and parents to be confident that a student's need for more intensive intervention or referral for special education evaluation is not due to ineffective classroom instruction. In a well designed RTI system, a solid core is considered effective and sufficient for about 80% of the student population.  

3) What is universal screening?

Universal screening is defined as a brief assessments that are valid, reliable, and demonstrate diagnostic accuracy for predicting which students will develop learning or behavioral problems. Universal screening is for ALL students. Think DIBELS-you give it to everyone three times a year. Universal screenings tell you which students who have got it and those that need more intensive help.

For more information check out two of my favorite go to RTI sites:

http://www.rti4success.org/

http://www.studentprogress.org/

 How is RTI is set up in your school? We have been working hard to increase our rigor in core. It's paying off we're seeing fewer students in Tier 2.  The form below is one that has helped to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. Have questions about RTI ask them.