Schoolin' Around

In this episode, Toni Liza-DeMello, the district MTSS manager for Chicago Public Schools, and Dr. Eva Dundas, the chief academic officer of Branching Minds, discuss the journey of implementing an equitable MTSS system in a large urban district. They highlight the importance of district-wide support and collaboration with various departments, such as social-emotional learning, language and culture, equity, diverse learner support, and college and career readiness. They emphasize the need for a strong foundation in tier one instruction and the use of data to inform support plans.

Resources:

• The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning
• SEL Guide
• English Language Learner Article
• Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

Takeaways:

• Implementing an equitable MTSS system in a large urban district requires district-wide support and collaboration with various departments.
• A strong foundation in Tier 1 instruction is essential for the success of MTSS.
• Data-driven decision-making is crucial in identifying student needs and informing support plans.
• Challenges in implementing MTSS include staffing, time allocation, resistance to change, and the perception of MTSS as just another district initiative.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

In this episode, Larissa interviews Joel Addis, an elementary school principal, about his experiences and strategies for managing the busy role of a school leader. They discuss the misconceptions and how the role of a principal is different than he expected. Joel emphasizes the importance of being instructionally focused. In this conversation, Joel Addis discusses the importance of time tracking and intentionality in school leadership. He shares how using the SAM process (Strategic Action Model) has helped him prioritize and maximize his time as a school leader. He also highlights the importance of being present and engaged with staff and students, as well as the value of distributive leadership. Overall, the conversation explores how effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact school culture and student outcomes.

Resources:

Principal Leadership Article

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

National SAM Organization

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

• The role of a school principal often comes with many responsibilities that are related to managing the day-to-day operations of a school, which can overshadow the instructional aspect of education.
• Being instructionally focused is crucial for principals, as there is a direct correlation between principals who spend a majority of their time on instructional activities and student achievement.
• By tracking and reflecting on how time is spent, principals can make adjustments to ensure that they are effectively prioritizing instructional activities. Time tracking and intentionality are crucial for effective school leadership.
• Distributive leadership eases the burden on leaders and empowers the team.
• Effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact student outcomes.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

Dr. Avis Williams, superintendent of NOLA Public Schools, discusses the district's initiative to address the mental health crisis among students. The district has implemented the 'mental minute' practice, which encourages students and staff to take a minute each day to engage in activities that promote mental well-being, such as reading, journaling, and breathing exercises. Dr. Williams emphasizes the importance of listening to students, using data to guide decision-making, and getting commitment from leaders to prioritize mental health in schools.

Resources:

Mental Health Article

Mental Health Webinar

SEL Guide

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Takeaways

• Implementing small, digestible practices like the 'mental minute' can help normalize conversations about mental health and make it more feasible for students and staff to engage in self-care.
• Partnerships with community organizations, such as Children's Hospital, can provide additional resources and support for mental health initiatives in schools.
• Listening to students and using data to guide decision-making are essential in addressing the mental health needs of students.
• Getting commitment from leaders and involving stakeholders in the planning and implementation process is crucial for the success of mental health initiatives in schools.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Larissa and Britt Shurley discuss the misunderstandings and challenges surrounding MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and special education. They emphasize the importance of using language of inclusivity and ensuring that all students have access to differentiated supports. They also discuss the role of MTSS in the referral process and how it can help identify students who need additional support. They address the frustration and emotions that can arise in these situations and provide strategies for leaders to support their staff. Overall, they highlight the collaborative nature of MTSS and special education and the importance of making informed decisions for students.

Resources:

Special Ed Article

Special Ed/MTSS Guide

MTSS Mini Summit 2024

Request a consultation

Takeaways

• Using language of inclusivity is important when discussing MTSS and special education
• MTSS can help identify students who need additional support
• Leaders should provide solutions and resources to support teachers
• MTSS and special education are collaborative by design
• Teachers should not feel solely responsible for providing all supports
• Services and supports should have an entrance and exit plan

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting the Branching Minds Website or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 )  Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Caitlin Crossman, from the Professional Services team, discuss the challenges of implementing MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools and how leaders can prioritize their efforts using the Impact Effort Map. They highlight the importance of focusing on high-impact, low-effort tasks and provide examples of how this tool can be used to streamline the implementation process. 

Resources:

Impact Vs Effort Map

Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities

How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

Takeaways

• Implementing MTSS can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing tasks using the Impact Effort Map can help leaders focus on high-impact, low-effort activities.
• The Impact Effort Map is a visual tool that allows educators to map out tasks based on their impact and effort required.
• The map helps identify quick wins, major projects, and tasks that can be delegated or scheduled for later.
• Communication and collaboration with stakeholders are essential for successful implementation.
• Leaders should regularly reflect on their priorities and be willing to adapt as needed.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link.   Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Dr. Mary O'Meara and Ms. Theresa Donahue from Plainview, Old Beth Page in New York, discuss their district's implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). They highlight the community involvement and diversity in their district, emphasizing the importance of supporting every student. The district's theme of 'Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts' aligns well with the goals of MTSS. Implementing MTSS, providing data-driven insights, and supporting the district's community efforts has impacted the superintendent's role. The district has made a cultural shift and a long-term commitment to MTSS, focusing on social-emotional learning (SEL) and equipping teachers with Tier 1 interventions.

Resources:

Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities

Article: How to Build MTSS Efficiency

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

Webinar: How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights Buy-In Guide

Learn more about the MTSS platform that Plainview- OBP used to scale their MTSS. Request a consultation

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visitingBranching Minds Website or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS.

Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this episode of Schooling Around, Larissa and LaTisha Cole, Branching Minds Professional Service Consultant,  discuss the importance of effective professional development in implementing and sustaining MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools. They emphasize the need for educators to have time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies. The conversation explores practical steps and strategies for bridging the gap between theory and application, such as using data to guide professional development, incorporating case studies and surveys, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. 

Resources:

Article: One Reason Your MTSS Might Be Failing

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

School Leader Guide to PD

MTSS Mini Summit 2024

Request a consultation 

Takeaways

• Effective professional development is crucial for implementing and sustaining MTSS in schools.
• Educators need time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies.
• Data should be used to guide professional development and identify areas of need.
• Bridging the gap between theory and application requires ongoing support and feedback.
• Innovative methods, such as incorporating fun activities and collaborative learning, can enhance professional development.
• Obstacles to high-quality professional development include time constraints and competing initiatives.
• Creating a culture of continuous improvement and celebrating successes can contribute to the sustainability of MTSS implementation.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website , or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this episode, Larissa unpacks how co-teaching could make MTSS possible within the secondary classroom. Co-teaching is an inclusive model of instruction that helps serve students with disabilities and students that need more support in the general education classroom. Larissa breaks down how co-teaching benefits each tier of MTSS and tips for leaders in making co-teaching work for teachers.

Resources:

• Co-Teaching Article
• Co-Teaching Observation Checklist
• School Leader Guide to PD

Takeaways

• Co-teaching is a powerful model for serving students with disabilities and students who need more support in the general education classroom.
• Co-teaching allows for differentiation of materials and activities, targeted interventions, and lower student-to-teacher ratios.
• Collaboration and clear roles and responsibilities are key to successful co-teaching.
• Leaders should provide co-planning time, consider personalities when assigning co-teaching partners, offer coaching and professional development, observe and reflect with teachers, and help create clear roles and responsibilities.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website , or Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Newsletter   Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  

Melissa Harvey, a middle school principal in Texas, shares her strategy of conducting stay interviews with teachers to address teacher retention and build a positive school culture. Stay interviews involve asking high-performing employees why they choose to stay at the school and what they love about it. Melissa also conducts stay interviews with new employees at the 30, 60, and 90-day mark to ensure their satisfaction and retention. By actively listening to teachers and implementing changes based on their feedback, Melissa has created a culture where teachers feel heard, valued, and connected. 

Resources:

Webinar:Deprivatizing The Classroom

Guide: Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Staff Burnout Article

Takeaways

• Stay interviews are an effective strategy for addressing teacher retention and building a positive school culture.
• Leaders should actively listen to teachers and implement changes based on their feedback.
• Staying in touch with teachers' experiences and making decisions that consider their perspectives is crucial for effective leadership.
• Transparency and communication are key in mitigating misunderstandings and building trust between leaders and teachers.

Sound Bites

"Being an effective, inspiring leader for my teachers means staying in touch with what it's like for them to work in our building and striving to make our school a place they'll never want to leave."

"Having someone that's just there to support and listen and actively working to solve big or small things is really powerful."

"Showing the big picture and the behind-the-scenes impact of decisions can help teachers understand and feel connected to the overall goals of the school."

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website , or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Our guest, Dr. Janet Wilson, discusses the principles and benefits of high-impact tutoring and how it can be integrated into the school day. She emphasizes the importance of aligning tutoring with classroom instruction and measuring its effectiveness through both quantitative and qualitative data. Dr. Wilson also addresses the challenges of funding and sustainability, highlighting the need for districts to repurpose existing resources and prioritize tutoring as a cost-effective intervention. She shares success stories of districts that have implemented high impact tutoring and discusses the mission of Littera Education in providing affordable and effective tutoring programs.

Resources:

High Impact Tutoring Webinar

Tutoring Article

Littera Education

DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR ACCELERATING STUDENT LEARNING WITH HIGH-IMPACT TUTORING

High-Impact Tutoring | National Student Support Accelerator 

Integrating High-Impact Tutoring with Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Takeaways

• High-impact tutoring is a highly effective intervention that can support students in making significant academic gains.
• Tutoring should be aligned with classroom instruction, and high-quality instructional materials should be used that are consistent with the curriculum.
• Measuring tutoring effectiveness requires quantitative data, such as student progress on standardized tests, and qualitative data, such as improved self-efficacy and transference of skills to the classroom.
• Funding and sustainability of tutoring programs can be achieved by repurposing existing resources and prioritizing tutoring as a cost-effective intervention.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our website Branchingminds.com, or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 )  Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.