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“Harlacher is on a mission to simplify schools’ approach to implementing MTSS—and he succeeds! Unique among resources on MTSS, this book delivers practical guidance based on an understanding of what drives educators to accept and embrace change. Harlacher’s expertise has been built over decades of supporting schools in MTSS implementation. This book's five principles are essential for school leaders new to MTSS and for experienced implementers looking to inspire a renewed effort toward systems change.”

—Julie Q. Morrison, PhD, NCSP, School Psychology Program, University of Cincinnati


“It is not often that a book is able to address the needs of both MTSS beginners and experts, but MTSS Simplified does just that. This book addresses the critical need to make MTSS implementation more approachable through the powerful and engaging use of metaphors and real-world examples. While MTSS frameworks are often overly technical, Harlacher creates a clear roadmap for implementation. This book should be required reading for all building and district leaders involved in MTSS and other change efforts.”

—Karen Jensen, EdS, Mental Health Services Coordinator, Harrison School District 2, Colorado Springs, Colorado


“Harlacher knows that student outcomes don't improve unless adults change their behavior. This book will support school leaders who need to focus on the actions and activities that simplify the complexity of MTSS, university professors who train administrators and school psychologists to lead change in schools, professional development providers and coaches who want fresh ideas for change management, and any educator who says their school implements MTSS but they aren't getting results for students. Kudos to Harlacher for recognizing a need and responding with such a useful book!”

—Stephanie Stollar, PhD, MTSS Consultant, Cincinnati


“This book provides a refreshing (and fun!) read on the complex topic of MTSS. It is perfectly organized and integrates useful tools for engaging those charged with supporting MTSS. As a graduate educator and school consultant, I will use this book to support foundational learning for educators who are just entering the field or for more advanced leaders looking for a new way to support others in their MTSS work. It is sure to be a hit.”

—Billie Jo Rodriguez, PhD, NCSP, BCBA-D, Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences, University of Oregon

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Table of Contents

Preface

1. Introduction: Simplifying MTSS

I. Foundations of MTSS

2. What’s in a Name?: An Overview of MTSS

3. Layered Cake: The Tiers of Support

4. Taking the Reins: Data and Teams

II. Simplifying MTSS

5. Acknowledge That Change Is Hard

6. Build the Need for Change

7. Think Systems, Not Individuals

8. Get a Spark Going

9. Ask the Right Questions

Epilogue: Steady Improvement

Index

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About the Author

Jason Harlacher, PhD, is a Senior Researcher at American Institutes for Research, where he is Director of the Center on Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Co-Director of the Wyoming MTSS Center, and a technical assistance provider for the National Center on Intensive Intervention. Dr. Harlacher has expertise in classroom management, data-based decision making, intensive intervention, positive behavioral interventions and supports, and social and emotional learning. Since the early 2000s, he has teamed directly with educators, school leaders, and district directors to implement MTSS in a practical and manageable way. Dr. Harlacher has worked as a school psychologist, district-level coach, adjunct professor, and state-level consultant. He is an award-winning author of several books.

• All titles by Jason Harlacher

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Audience

Educators working with children ages 5–17 (K–12), including school psychologists, counselors, and social workers; school- and district-level MTSS team leaders and administrators; and classroom teachers and special educators.