| Course Number: | July 8, 2026 - May 10, 2027 |
| Instructor: | Jennifer Patenaude, M.S. |
| Location: | In-person & online |
| Dates and Times: | July 8, 2026 - May 10, 2027. In person Sessions: July 14 and 15, 2026 8:30 - 3:30 Lake Morey Resort Online Sessions: October 14, 2026 2:00-5:00 January 20, 2027 2:00-5:00 April 14, 2027 2:00-5:00 |
| Credits: | 2 (two) credits |
| Tuition: | Set by and payable to VT-HEC |
Course Description:
In this course, participants will explore and strengthen implementation of their multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS). They will deepen their understanding of the five Vermont MTSS components and how they function together to support equitable learner outcomes.
Course participants will also examine leadership structures that build shared ownership and sustain MTSS implementation across a school. They will explore how to strengthen layered supports so that instruction and intervention are responsive to the varied academic, behavioral, and social–emotional needs of students. Participants will learn strategies for using data to identify student needs, monitor progress, and guide instruction. The course will also focus on strengthening family and community partnerships to support student success. Finally, participants will consider how to use evidence-based approaches that increase access, engagement, and learning.
Grounded in clear outcomes and real school models, participants will reflect on their current practices while actively applying new learning and exploring practical tools to drive meaningful change. Participants will identify concrete actions for each MTSS component and develop a practical scope of work to guide implementation in the coming school year. This strategic plan will be shared with colleagues, implemented and reflected upon throughout the duration of the school year, and carefully considered in a final summation of practice at the end of the course.
Audience: This course is designed for K-8 educators, with a Bachelor’s Degree, responsible for implementing and sustaining MTSS.
Course Goals:
Course Objectives:
Course participants will:
Costs for required readings, if any, are not included in the course tuition.
The Vermont Agency of Education’s Multi-tiered System of Supports Guidelines. (n.d.). https://education.vermont.gov/sites/aoe/files/documents/edu-vtmtss-field-guide-2019_0.pdf
Integrated multi-tiered systems of support in elementary schools: Practical applications. (2024). Beyond Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1177/10534512241254031
Nitz, J., Brack, F., Hertel, S., Krull, J., Stephan, H., Hennemann, T., & Hanisch, C. (2023). Multi-tiered systems of support with focus on behavioral modification in elementary schools: A systematic review. Heliyon, 9(6), e17506. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17506
Choi, J. H., Miller, D. D., & McCart, A. B. (2024). Outcomes of Equity-Based Multi-Tiered System of Support and Instructional Decision-Making for Autistic Students. Education Sciences, 14(7), 708. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14070708
Roberts, G., Clemens, N., Doabler, C. T., Vaughn, S., Almirall, D., & Nahum-Shani, I. (2021). Multitiered Systems of Support, Adaptive Interventions, and SMART Designs. Exceptional children, 88(1), 8–25. https://doi.org/10.1177/00144029211024141
Reichart, K., Lockwood, A., & Bohanon, H. (2026). AI-Driven Systems in MTSS: Potential Opportunities and Challenges. Journal of Applied School Psychology, 42(1), 69–83. https://doi.org/10.1080/15377903.2026.2629399
Morse, T. E. (2025). Maximizing Systematic Instruction Throughout a Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Encyclopedia, 5(4), 186. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5040186
Other required readings (*will be provided to you on VT-HEC Canvas)
802-238-0388
This course requires registration with the Vermont Higher Education Collaborative (VT-HEC) first. Please click on the Register Now button below.