According to McIntosh & Goodman (2015), a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) is an integration of a number of multi-tiered systems into a single, coherent, strategically integrated system to address multiple domains in education (behavior, social-emotional, academic). MTSS is a decision-making framework used to guide the selection and implementation of best practices for improving academic and behavioral outcomes. Through this framework, leadership teams across all implementation levels (state, district, and school) use core implementation elements to improve the learning environment for all students.

SSD’s MTSS Facilitators have created the following foundational guide for installing District-Wide MTSS. This document aims to provide a best-practice, research-based guide that supports district-level teams as they build and lead district-wide, integrated multi-tiered support systems (MTSS). The guide provides MTSS strategies, tips, and processes. Flexibility with the guide's components is encouraged as teams will work in an order that makes the most sense in their needs.