Jessica Simon » Aspen View Academy Multi-Tier System of Supports

Aspen View Academy Multi-Tier System of Supports

Hello and welcome!

 

My name is Jessica Simon and I am thrilled to be the MTSS Coordinator at Aspen View Academy. 

 

This year marks my 12th year in education, and I’m just as excited today as I was when I started. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, and later completed my Master’s of Education in Literacy at Stephen F. Austin State University. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach kindergarten through third grade as well as literacy intervention—experiences that have shaped my passion for helping young learners build strong foundations in both academics and confidence.

 

Outside of the classroom, my husband, our son (a 4th grader at AVA!), and I enjoy hiking—especially in Rocky Mountain National Park—kayaking, traveling to visit family in Texas, walking our dogs, reading, and all things sports!

 

Here’s to a wonderful journey ahead!

Aspen View Academy Multi-Tiered Support of Supports (MTSS)
 
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a national school-based initiative that has developed over the past two decades as a coordinated, inclusive system with flexibility to meet the needs of all learners. Aspen View Academy utilizes this model for identifying and addressing the specific academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs of students. Aspen View Academy MTSS uses data-driven problem-solving and incorporates system-level change to address both academic and non-academic needs of students. Students in general education and those receiving special education and/or Section 504 can participate in MTSS. MTSS is not used to delay or deny a child’s right to an initial evaluation for special education and/or Section 504.

The FIRST TIER in MTSS is Universal Supports & Core Instruction. Approximately 80-85% of students do well with Tier 1 supports & instruction. Tier 1 universal support for Aspen View Academy students includes, but is not limited to:
 
  • Scoped and sequenced curriculums
  • Differentiation
  • Ability Grouping
  • Routine data collection to monitor the progress of all students
  • AVA’s R.E.S.P.E.C.T. & Capturing Kids' Hearts
 
The SECOND TIER in MTSS is Targeted Interventions. Approximately 10-15% of students need targeted supports to increase their skill levels. These are largely delivered within the classroom and/or in small groups of students. Examples of Tier 2 supports can include:

    • Extra practice with support for skills such as reading fluency or math calculation, in addition to what is received during reading or math instructional times
    • Supports such as extra time for assessments, breaking down large assignments or tests to more manageable pieces, audio books, etc.
    • Small social-emotional groups facilitated by mental health staff
    • Executive function strategies and resources provided to teachers, students, and parents
 
The THIRD TIER of MTSS is Intensive Services and approximately 5% of students may need direct pull-out for academic and/or nonacademic concerns. Following data collection and services in Tier 3, the MTSS team, which includes parents, may make a referral for a Section 504 or Special Education Evaluation. Examples of Tier 3 services can include:

  • Individualized instruction outside of the classroom provided by an interventionist
  • Functional Behavioral Assessment/Behavior Intervention Plan
  • Individual, time-sensitive support counseling
 
Background image  Jessica  Simon`s profile picture
Name
Jessica Simon
Position
MTSS Coordinator
Email
jsimon@aspenviewacademy.org