In this episode, I break down the foundation of MTSS: Tier 1. We talk about what strong Tier 1 actually looks like in real classrooms, why so many schools struggle to get it right, and the most common mistakes I see when systems focus too heavily on interventions instead of the core. If more than 20% of students need Tier 2 or Tier 3 support, that’s a signal to look at Tier 1 first. I’ll walk through what strong instruction, clear systems, and protected core time look like in practice, and how schools can start strengthening Tier 1 right now.

In this episode, I break down how MTSS, RTI, and PBIS are actually supposed to work together on a real campus.

I clarify what RTI is responsible for (academics), what PBIS is responsible for (behavior and culture), and why schools struggle when those systems operate in silos. I also walk through what alignment looks like across all three tiers — and what happens when it doesn’t.

If you’ve ever felt confused about where these systems fit, this episode will bring clarity. You don’t need more initiatives. You need systems that make sense.

In this episode of Foundations in Education, I’m breaking down what MTSS actually is and why it feels so confusing in so many schools. We’re stripping away the jargon and getting clear on the truth that MTSS is not a program, a binder, or a referral process. It is a framework designed to support the whole child through prevention-focused systems. I’ll explain why Tier 1 is the foundation of everything, how RTI and PBIS fit under the MTSS umbrella, and the most common mistakes schools make when MTSS becomes reactive or unclear. I’ll also share what strong MTSS looks like in practice and leave you with reflection questions to think about how MTSS is really functioning on your campus.

Feeling overwhelmed by MTSS, data meetings, or school initiatives that never seem to stick? You’re not alone. In this first episode of Foundations in Education, Marisa introduces the purpose behind the podcast, shares her journey through teaching, leadership, and instructional coaching, and explains why strong systems should support educators, not exhaust them. If you’re looking for clarity, alignment, and practical ways to make school systems actually work, this podcast is for you.