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DCI-MTSS Professional Learning Modules

A Professional Learning Module (PLM) is a focused approach to Professional Development content that addresses adult learning principles, upholds specific characteristics of high-quality Professional Development, and focuses on implementation and integration at the classroom level.

The DCI-MTSS Professional Learning Modules have the specific focus of integrating academic and behavior elements of a given topic into a district’s Multi-Tiered System of Support. Modules are designed to be practical and actionable, enabling educators to implement strategies effectively. These modules ensure that instruction and interventions are not only evidence-based but also adaptable to varying educational contexts.

Each Professional Learning Module has an accompanying Practice Profile, a framework developed by the National Implementation Research Network as a way of outlining criteria using a rubric structure with clearly defined implementation characteristics. Practice Profiles are organized by Essential Functions.

Universal Screening for Tiered Instuction

  • Universal screening is a proactive and systematic process for assessing all students to determine whether core instruction (Tier 1) is meeting their needs and to identify those requiring additional support. A universal screening system serves as an early warning, quickly highlighting students who are at risk before significant challenges develop.

    A strong universal screening system incorporates data from three sources:

    1. A standardized universal screener given to ALL students
    2. Multiple sources of district data (e.g., literacy data, ODRs)
    3. Teacher input informed by day-to-day knowledge

    With early identification of students at risk, districts use screening data to inform instruction, ensuring no student “falls through the cracks.”

    Things to Think About!

    • What are the purposes and benefits of a universal screening system?

    • What should my district consider when selecting and using universal screening measures?

    • How can data be used to support tiered instruction and interventions?

    • How will our district implement a universal screening system?

    The Universal Screening Module for Tiered Interventions will help your district work through these questions!

    To see the full module, click here