The concept of RTI is built around the idea of tiers. In order to use RTI for behavioral intervention, it is necessary to reevaluate the manifestation of the “tier.” Instead of a student who needs Tier 2 interventions leaving the Tier 1 classroom entirely, the Tier 2 interventions need to take place within the Tier 1 classroom. Because of this, the interventions at each tier including the following:
- Tier 1 (these interventions apply equally to all students) – school-wide discipline plan, instruction in proper social skills and conflict resolution, consistent school-wide behavioral expectations
- Tier 2 – communication between parent and teacher, behavioral motivational charts, positive and negative reinforcement as needed
- Tier 3 – referral to school psychologist, discussion with rest of RTI team, support from paraeducator, possibility of finding an alternative placement for the student
Of course, during the second and third tiers, teachers should record data as to which behavioral modification strategies were used, their effects, and any changes that the student has undergone. This data should be used to determine which behavioral strategies are working and which should be reconsidered in order to improve them.
