MTSS: Integrating Academics and Behavior Matters

During this powerful EDVIEW360 episode Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) experts Dr. Judy Elliott and Dr. Margaret McGlinchey unpack why educators see the greatest gains when academic and behavior systems are implemented together—not in silos. Drawing on decades of research and national leadership, they explain how integrating these frameworks creates the conditions where instruction can flourish and students can thrive.

Drs. Elliott and McGlinchey explore the interdependent relationship between behavior and academics: When educators establish strong, proactive behavior supports, they reduce problem behaviors, increase instructional time, and expand opportunities for engagement. At the same time, high‑quality literacy instruction strengthens students’ readiness to participate successfully in the learning environment.

Our experts will share how the core components of MTSS (including data‑based decision-making, universal screening, tiered supports, and structured intervention) apply seamlessly across both academic and behavior domains. Drs. Elliott and McGlinchey highlight how district leaders can streamline processes, strengthen implementation fidelity, and improve outcomes by using one coherent system rather than separate teams working independently.

Listeners will learn:

• The interdependent relationship between behavior and academics and why integration increases instructional time and engagement.
• How to identify the shared MTSS components: Data systems, screening, tiered supports—that apply across literacy and behavior.
• The ways unified MTSS teams improve implementation fidelity and reduce siloed decision‑making.
• Recognize when and how to intensify interventions for students needing additional support.