Quakertown schools unveil successful MTSS strategies for grades 6-12

The May 5, 2025, meeting of the Quakertown Community School District's Education and Policy Committee focused on the implementation and progress of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) at the secondary level. The meeting began with an introduction from Dr. Hoffman, who emphasized the importance of understanding the MTSS framework as it applies to students in grades 6 through 12.

The presentation highlighted the proactive nature of MTSS, which aims to address the academic and behavioral needs of all students through data-driven decision-making. The framework is designed to ensure that no student falls through the cracks, providing layered support that can be adjusted based on individual needs. The team of secondary administrators and MTSS teacher leaders shared insights into their structured approach, which includes universal, targeted, and intensive levels of support.

Key features of the MTSS implementation were discussed, including the establishment of teams that analyze building-wide data and identify at-risk students. The presentation also underscored the importance of aligning systems between middle and high school to facilitate smoother transitions for students. This alignment aims to reduce anxiety and ensure that students receive consistent support as they progress through grades.

Steph Cucinada, an interventionist at Strayer, reported on the successes achieved over the past three years. Notably, the sixth-grade center saw a significant reduction in the number of students receiving "in danger of failing" letters, dropping from 13 to 6. Additionally, the overall number of office discipline referrals (ODRs) decreased from 3,204 to 2,365, indicating improved student behavior.

Cucinada also highlighted the implementation of mentorship programs, which have fostered stronger connections between teachers and students. Feedback from both teachers and students reflected the positive impact of these mentorships on academic performance and emotional support.

The meeting concluded with a celebration of the successes achieved through the MTSS framework, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to supporting every student's educational journey. The committee plans to continue monitoring progress and refining strategies to enhance student outcomes in the future.