Evaluation Briefs

After attempting to reach full implementation of healthy and functioning Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 behavioral systems at its elementary schools through years of training and coaching, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) found it necessary to strategically invest district resources in its PBIS efforts by targeting Tier 2 and initial Tier 3 systems (i.e., interventions not served via special education). SPS identified a need for a system’s focused and district-directed role and created a new Behavior Interventionist position in each elementary school to lead and coordinate Tier 2 and initial Tier 3 support systems. Starting with a pilot school in 2018 and expanding to a district-wide position in 2021, the district-directed Behavior Interventionist role transformed the district's ability to meet the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of its students. This brief first illustrates the importance of initial district planning and on-going, iterative implementation of culturally responsive Tier 1 supports as a critical foundation for Tier 2 and 3 supports. Next, the refinement and operationalization of Tier 2 systems as well as a district continuum of supports are shared as a way to contextualize and use data to identify systems needs. Lastly, we illustrate the importance of targeted district support and resource allocation can improve outcomes.