Tier 1: High-Quality Classroom Instruction, Screening, and Group Interventions
Within Tier 1, all students receive high-quality, scientifically based instruction provided by qualified personnel to ensure that their difficulties are not due to inadequate instruction. Monroe County Schools utilizes the Highly Engaged Rubric and Effective Classroom Management & Instructional Strategies checklist as reference tools for classrooms.  All students are screened on a periodic basis to establish an academic and behavioral baseline.  Data reviewed in screening includes attendance, behavior referrals, screeners, credits, etc. Students identified as being “at risk” through universal screenings and/or results on state- or districtwide tests receive supplemental instruction during the school day in the regular classroom. The length of time for this step can vary, but it generally should not exceed 12 weeks. During that time, student progress is closely monitored using a validated screening system such as curriculum-based measurement. At the end of this period, students showing significant progress are generally returned to the regular classroom program. Students not showing adequate progress are moved to Tier 2.