Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Moises Merlos, Director of Student Services at Banning Unified School District in California, as they explore the district’s comprehensive approach to supporting students through a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS). This insightful conversation delves into how Banning Unified addresses academics, behavior, attendance, and social-emotional learning with coordinated efforts across schools and district offices.

Key Takeaways:

• MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) is a comprehensive framework addressing academics, behavior, attendance, and social-emotional learning to support students holistically.
• While most districts are strong academically, attendance, behavior, and social-emotional supports have become critical areas needing reinforcement, especially post-pandemic.
• Effective MTSS requires deep understanding of existing programs, clear division of roles among staff (counselors, principals, attendance clerks), and strong coordination across these roles.
• Communication and intentional training are essential so that all staff understand how attendance, behavior, and social-emotional factors interrelate and impact student success.
• The focus is on identifying root causes of issues (e.g., poor attendance) rather than just addressing symptoms like discipline.

0:00 Introduction

1:30 Overview of Banning Unified School District and Community Context

4:15 Understanding MTSS: Academics, Behavior, Attendance, and Social-Emotional Learning

8:40 The Impact of the Pandemic on Attendance, Behavior, and SEL Supports

12:30 Aligning MTSS Programs and Dividing Roles Among Staff

17:45 Importance of Holistic Student Support and Root Cause Analysis

22:50 Communication and Training Across Counselors, Principals, and Support Staff

28:30 Overcoming Challenges: Staff Turnover and Consistent Messaging

33:45 Building a Support System and Coordination Within Schools

38:20 The Role of Principals as Conductors of MTSS Efforts

43:00 Adapting MTSS to Different School Levels and Settings

48:15 Reflection on the Complexity and Importance of MTSS for Student Success

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Moises Merlos: linkedin.com/in/moises-merlos-ed-d-81a7b279

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda

Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe