USD 383 work session spotlights MTSS, structured literacy and April curriculum recommendation

Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 board members met in a work session to receive elementary site council reports that emphasized the district's multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), a shift toward structured literacy instruction and ongoing teacher training through LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling). The board approved the meeting agenda by voice vote, 5-0.

District officials and elementary principals told the board these initiatives aim to strengthen core instruction, expand targeted interventions and align curriculum; staff said a formal recommendation for high-quality instructional materials will be presented to the board in April as part of the district's adoption cycle.

Why it matters: The changes discussed affect instruction and interventions for all K-5 students in the district and shape teacher professional development, assessment strategies and the curriculum materials teachers will use in coming years.

District staff described MTSS as a three-tier model that guides academic, behavioral and social-emotional supports. A presenter identified as a district staff member said core, universal instruction serves roughly 80% of students, targeted small-group interventions 15% and intensive individualized services about 5%. The presenter said MTSS…