Support for Struggling Students

Educational Support Teams

If a teacher becomes aware that a student is struggling to master the skills and knowledge being taught in class, there are layers of support that can be provided.

• The first layer of support, Universal Core Instruction may include accommodations, differentiation of classwork, and some intervention during core class time. This is a regular and ongoing part of all core classroom instruction.
• If the inital support does not achieve the goal of the student successfully accessing core classroom instruction, the teacher may consult with colleagues about additional measures that might be taken. This consultation is often called a “Kid Talk.” At Kid Talks, evidence of the measures tried so far, and assessment data are examined, and potential additional supports are identified.
• Based on the Kid Talk, an additional layer ( Layer 2 – additional classroom supports) may be provided either in the core classroom or outside of core instructioin,  and the student’s progress is monitored, often with a short assessment to track progress.
• Additional supports may include assignment to a specific “WIN” (“what I need”) support time and/or individual or small group remedial instruction from Academic Support or other teachers.
• If the struggles continue, supports may be increased (Layer 3) via changes in frequency, individualized versus small group instruction, or other actions.
• If it is determined that the supports being provided are not leading to successful outcomes for the student, a more formal Educational Support Team (EST) process may be invoked. A summary of the EST process is provided here.
• If there is evidence that the supports provded in initial layers are not sufficient to allow the student to fully access core instruction, an evaluation of whether or not specialized instruction (Layer 4) is required may be a recommendation coming out of the EST process.