Description

In this episode, Taren Hendricks and Dr. Kelsey Walker share their experiences and insights on implementing Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and literacy initiatives in Goshen County Schools. They discuss the unique challenges and successes of working in a rural educational setting, and highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making and professional development.

Resources:

Reading in the Brain: The New Science of How We Read (Dehaene, 2010)

The Reading League’s summer book study

• Effective Universal Instruction (Gibbons et al., 2018)
• MTSS for Reading Improvement (Brown & Stollar, 2025)

MTSS Coach PLC

• Untangling Data-Based Decision Making (Harlacher et al., 2024)
• Intervention Central: Response to Intervention resources

WDE’s Wyoming MTSS Center

Resources & professional development

• AIR’s MTSS Center resources

MTSS and Science of Reading Article

MTSS Coaching Toolkit

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

• MTSS Implementation: The importance of a structured, system-wide approach to implementing MTSS to ensure consistent support across diverse educational settings.
• Data Utilization: How centralized data systems can enhance decision-making processes and improve student outcomes by providing clear insights into student progress and needs.
• Professional Development: The effectiveness of phased training and the application of adult learning theory in fostering teacher growth and improving instructional practices.
• Shared Leadership: The role of collaborative leadership in driving educational change and ensuring the sustainability of new initiatives.
• Teacher Support: The need for ongoing support and resources for teachers to effectively implement MTSS and adapt to new educational strategies.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!