612 Final Thoughts

Introduction
As I complete my course regarding working with diverse populations I am left with a few takeaways that will stick with me throughout my career. There is a moral obligation to do our best to continue to improve in meeting the needs of each learner. Past programs such as RTI2 have made strides in improving education for all, however, they have proven to be insufficient. There is a new intervention system known as MTSS, or Multi-Tiered System of Supports, that tries to further meet the needs of all learners. The end goal is to create a system predicated on equity as opposed to equality.
MTSS and Equity
     MTSS focuses on creating equity in the school system while assisting in implementation of the new Common Core State Standards. It really emphasizes how to implement CCSS using research based strategies. Some of the strategies supported through MTSS include: early intervention, differentiated learning, integrated intervention and instructional supports. This is where MTSS distinguishes itself from RTI2; first, that it focuses on all learners not just those who are struggling. Second, it addressed the need to integrate intervention strategies. For instance a student may need both behavioral interventions as well as academic assistance in order to be successful. MTSS establishes a system that looks at behavior and academics in conjunction with one another.
     MTSS also does a good job of providing a data driven vision for education. The program suggests that before implementing that a school site begins to research and collect data. Based on that data collection the school should decide where it would be best to allocate resources based on educational trends. Ideally this data should be collected from the classroom, the school, and the district level. This way the resources can be allocated based on the individual need. For instance, district administrators can provide more resources to a particular school that may be under performing. A Principal may choose to provide a training for the entire staff if there is a school wide issue. Lastly, after implementing a new strategy data should be collected to ensure that it is yielding the desired outcome. This proactive approach leads to assisting all learners instead of only those who are already struggling.
     Student centered learning is also at the forefront of MTSS and also an integral part of CCSS. Student centered learning focuses on meeting the needs of the individual learner. This helps bring forth equity, by allowing each student to have access to the things they need. This would be done through things such as allowing students different mediums of accessing the same lesson. This individualized approach to learning is imperative to a modern educational system. This has changed my approach as a teacher and will continue to influence my view if I become an administrator.
Conclusion
     Equity is providing students with the tools necessary for them to access the curriculum. If each student has different skills, then there must in turn be different ways for the students to utilize those skills to access the curriculum. Looking at each student as an individual and then creating an educational system based around them is the best way to move the educational system forward. MTSS provides a framework to accomplish this very goal and is applicable to anyone in the educational field. I have begun to look at various ways of allowing students access to lessons in order to meet their individual needs. My hope is to convince my administration to support me in my endeavors, although that remains to be seen. I will continue to try and make progress in assisting all learners in whatever role I am currently in.