Multilingual Learners and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

This white paper outlines the intersection of multilingual learners and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). It begins by describing the unique assets that multilingual learners bring to educational environments, emphasizing the importance of developing systems that support their linguistic, learning, and behavioral needs. The document details the structure of MTSS, which includes three tiers: Tier 1 for universal support, Tier 2 for targeted interventions, and Tier 3 for intensive support. Each tier incorporates assessments, instructional materials, and resources tailored to address the diverse needs of students. The paper also discusses the necessity of culturally responsive practices within MTSS, highlighting the challenges faced by multilingual learners, including misidentification for special education. It stresses the importance of using linguistically accessible assessments and providing differentiated supports that consider students' varied language proficiency levels and cultural backgrounds. The document concludes by advocating for intentional planning in instruction and intervention to foster an inclusive learning environment for all students.