What is RTI?

Sometimes educators seem to speak a language of their own. We're happy to help answer any questions you have to navigate your school system.

You may have heard the acronym RTI thrown around, and wondered what it actually is. RTI stands for "Response to Intervention."

Most often, schools start with quality instruction and curriculum within the classroom. However, this is only effective for approximately 80% of the population.

There are many ongoing assessments throughout the school year. Some happen daily to monitor progress and understanding. If a child is struggling, interventions are put into place to help them. This can be -time with a reading teacher in or out of the classroom, special educator's stepping in, or various other specialists working with the child.

The data that is collected overtime is what helps guide instruction. Progress is monitored, and the family should be a part of the process. Some students respond to the interventions and progress in their achievement while for some others it may be determined that they need additional help. The additional help could include additional services within the school, a 504 or and IEP, or supports outside of school including tutoring and other specialized services.

Have you heard of RTI? What has been your experience?