Schoolin' Around

In this episode, Cass McKay, a former testing coordinator and member of the Branching Minds team, shares practical tips, humorous stories, and insights to help educators navigate the stressful assessment season. From planning and team management to debunking myths, discover how to survive and thrive during testing time.

Resources:

8th/9th Month MTSS Checklist

School Leader Guide to PD

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

1. Always have a backup plan for testing day disruptions.
2. Build a supportive team with clear communication tools.
3. Don’t be too rigid with schedules; adapt as needed.
4. Take care of yourself — wear comfortable shoes and eat well.
5. Use humor and stories to connect and reduce stress.

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 conversation, Larissa interviews school leaders in Texas about what is going well in their districts. They share insights on how to foster a supportive environment for both educators and students, emphasizing the need for effective communication and shared leadership in schools.

Resources:

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

College and Career Readiness Webinar

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

MTSS & Families Toolkit

Tier 1 Core Instruction Article

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

1. Celebrating small wins can reignite motivation in education.
2. Community engagement is crucial for successful educational programs.
3. Collaboration among staff leads to improved student outcomes.
4. Data-driven decisions help identify areas for improvement.
5. Investing in leadership development enhances instructional quality.
6. Parent involvement is key to student success.
7. Utilizing effective curricula can lead to significant growth.
8. Shared knowledge among staff fosters a positive school culture.
9. Continuous training is essential for adapting to new educational challenges.
10. Building a supportive team environment is vital for achieving goals.

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 conversation, Larissa discusses the importance of teamwork in education with representatives from Springs Charter Schools, who have successfully implemented a holistic approach to student support through the MTSS framework. They share insights on the significance of data visibility, collaboration across departments, and the necessity of training for effective implementation. The discussion emphasizes the shift from individual responsibility to a shared commitment to student success, highlighting the importance of building relationships and addressing the root causes of student challenges.

Resources:

MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation Article

A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation

Middle of Year eBook

Momentum Awards

Takeaways:

1. Teamwork is essential for student success in education.
2. MTSS is a collaborative approach that involves all staff members.
3. Data visibility is crucial for understanding student needs.
4. Training is vital for effective implementation of MTSS.
5. Building relationships with students is foundational for progress.
6. Personalized learning requires flexibility and adaptation.
7. Collaboration across departments enhances student support.
8. Addressing root causes leads to better student outcomes.
9. Success stories motivate and inspire educators.
10. Continuous feedback and adjustment are necessary for improvement.

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]!

This conversation highlights the efforts of educators at Woodbury Hills Elementary and Danville Public Schools in Virginia, in fostering a positive school culture through various initiatives. The discussion covers the importance of celebrating successes, engaging students through social media, utilizing data-driven instruction, and recognizing both staff and student achievements. The collaborative efforts among teachers and staff are emphasized as key to supporting student growth and maintaining morale within the educational community.

Resources:

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Article: The Power of Strength Based Instruction

MTSS and Attendance Article

MTSS Momentum Awards

Takeaways:

1. Celebrating small successes leads to overall growth and improved morale.
2. MTSS is not just another program; educators are already implementing many of its principles.
3. Engaging students through social media has proven effective in increasing attendance.
4. Data-driven instruction helps identify student needs and tailor support accordingly.
5. Recognition of both students and staff fosters a positive environment.
6. Collaboration among educators enhances the effectiveness of teaching strategies.
7. Parental involvement is crucial for student success and attendance.
8. Creative approaches to engagement can significantly impact student motivation.
9. The importance of community and connection in driving educational success.

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]!

This conversation explores the journey of Lee School in Norridge School District in Illinois, focusing on their successful implementation of the MTSS framework. The educators discuss the importance of collaboration, teacher development, and family engagement in fostering student success. They share insights on building a strong MTSS framework, the significance of knowing the 'why' behind their efforts, and the continuous improvement of their processes. The conversation emphasizes the role of teachers and the community in creating a supportive educational environment.

Resources:

Momentum Awards

MTSS Intervention Flowchart Guide

MTSS Handbook Webinar

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

1. Success is built on momentum, which is crucial for sustaining educational initiatives.
2. Understanding the community and demographics is essential for effective educational strategies.
3. Collaboration among educators is vital for student success and should be ongoing, not just during meetings.
4. Knowing the 'why' behind MTSS helps in articulating goals and maintaining focus.
5. Creating clear guidelines and handbooks can help teachers navigate the MTSS process more effectively.
6. Investing in teacher development is key to ensuring they feel confident in implementing new strategies.
7. Engaging families in the educational process fosters a supportive environment for students.
8. Continuous improvement and layering new initiatives can enhance the effectiveness of existing programs.
9. Transparency and communication with parents help build trust and collaboration.
10. The dedication and effort of teachers are fundamental to the success of any educational framework.

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, we explore how Samuel Walker Houston Elementary in Huntsville ISD leverages PBIS and MTSS to create a positive and inclusive school environment. Assistant Principal Anthony Williams shares actionable strategies for systems, relationship building, and student engagement that are transforming their school community.

Samuel Walker Houston Elementary was one of our Momentum Award winners this year. They were recognized for their momentum in the area of PBIS and MTSS.

Resources:

Article: PBIS: More than Points and Parties

Tier 1 Behavior Guide

Branching Minds Momentum Awards

Capturing Kids Hearts

PBIS

Samuel Walker Houston Elementary School Website

Takeaways:

1. The importance of building capacity in teachers for classroom management
2. How PBIS guiding principles, like "Big Rocks," align staff and student behavior
3. Using classroom expectations, rewards, and recognition to reinforce positive behavior
4. The innovative badge challenge system that promotes collective student achievement
5. Data-driven approaches to reducing office discipline referrals
6. The significance of strong relationships and speaking with purpose
7. The long-term commitment needed to implement effective school-wide systems
8. Strategies for beginning or reinvigorating PBIS and MTSS programs

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 discusses the critical difference between reacting and responding in school leadership, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies in behavior management. She explores the neuroscience behind these reactions, particularly the roles of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, and provides practical strategies for shifting from a reactive to a responsive school environment. The episode concludes with a challenge for school leaders to implement one proactive strategy to address recurring behavior challenges.

Resources:

Article: How To Utilize Behavior Staff Effectively in MTSS/PBIS

Article: 5 Tips for De-Escalation and Building Strong Relationships with Students

Webinar: Enhancing School Safety Through Restorative Practices and MTSS

Tier 3 Behavior Guide

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

1. The difference between reacting and responding is crucial in school leadership.
2. Our brains influence our responses to crises in school settings.
3. The amygdala drives reactive responses, while the prefrontal cortex enables thoughtful responses.
4. Proactive planning is essential for effective behavior management.
5. MTSS serves as a framework for building a responsive school culture.
6. Behavior staff should focus on prevention, not just reaction.
7. Empowering teachers can reduce the need for referrals.
8. Restorative practices promote learning and community repair.
9. School leaders set the emotional tone for their environment.
10. Shifting to a responsive model takes time and persistence.

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 Makiri Pugh, Managing Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation at Maya Angelou Schools in DC, about the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). They discuss the challenges and successes of integrating MTSS into the school's culture, emphasizing the importance of relationships, data-driven decisions, and the holistic support of students.

Resources:

Ultimate MTSS Guide

School Leader Guide to PD

MTSS in Secondary Schools

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

• MTSS implementation requires strong leadership and commitment.
• Alternative schools like Maya Angelou Schools focus on relational culture.
• MTSS is about organizing existing practices, not adding new ones.
• Centralized data snapshots help teachers understand student needs.
• Tiered instruction is essential for effective student support.
• Attendance and behavior data are crucial for academic success.
• Social-emotional support is foundational for student learning.
• Small changes can significantly impact student outcomes.
• Collaboration among educators enhances student support.
• Building relationships is key to successful 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. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to [email protected]!

In this engaging conversation, Larisssa and Patty McGee explore the multifaceted nature of literacy, emphasizing the importance of writing alongside reading. They discuss the need for authentic conversations in education, the rethinking of grammar instruction, and the role of educators in fostering a supportive environment for young writers. The discussion highlights the significance of feedback, the integration of grammar into writing, and the necessity of creating a safe space for students to express themselves. Patty shares valuable insights and strategies for improving writing instruction and supporting students in their writing journeys.

Resources:

Patty’s Resources

1. Website
2. Grammar Memes
3. Book: Not Your Granny’s Grammar
4. Learning Plan Example

Early Literacy and Branching Minds Article

Takeaways:

1. Literacy encompasses both reading and writing, and both are essential.
2. Authentic conversations in education foster deeper understanding.
3. Rethinking grammar instruction can enhance student engagement.
4. Writing is a powerful tool for self-expression and advocacy.
5. Feedback should focus on teaching the writer, not just correcting mistakes.
6. Creating a neutral tone during writing time encourages student participation.
7. Modeling writing techniques helps students understand expectations.
8. Integrating grammar instruction into writing practice is crucial.
9. Young writers need a safe space to explore their creativity.
10. Educational leaders play a vital role in supporting effective writing instruction.

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 podcast episode, Larissa and Dr. Brian Gaunt discuss the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), clarifying its definition, misconceptions, and its role in education. They explore how MTSS differs from other frameworks like RTI and PBIS, emphasizing its focus on prevention and effective decision-making. The conversation also highlights the essential components of an MTSS system and the interconnectedness of academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning (SEL) in supporting the whole child.

Resources:

A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation

Free Download: What is MTSS?

MTSS FAQs: Your Simple Questions About Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, Answered

Enter 2025 Wins Giveaway

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

1. MTSS is a framework that creates conditions for effective decision-making.
2. It's essential to understand MTSS as a guide for school improvement, not just another program.
3. Prevention is a key aspect of MTSS, focusing on supporting students before they fall behind.
4. The success of MTSS relies on being integrated into the district's policies and practices.
5. Different states may define MTSS differently, but core components remain similar.
6. MTSS encompasses both academic and behavioral support, addressing the whole child.
7. Effective implementation of MTSS requires ongoing professional development and coaching.
8. Data-driven decision-making is crucial for identifying student needs and monitoring progress.
9. Collaboration among teams is necessary to address the interconnected needs of students.

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]!