Schoolin' Around

In this episode, we explore the significance of celebrating wins in the educational field, particularly within the context of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing both small and big achievements to combat burnout and foster motivation. It provides practical strategies for integrating celebration into daily routines and highlights the impact of community involvement in recognizing educational successes.Resources:How To Establish a Supportive & Successful MTSS Culturehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empower-your-mind/202406/from-small-steps-to-big-wins-the-importance-of-celebrating https://www.newleaders.org/blog/how-celebrating-your-schools-wins-leads-to-more-winsMomentum Awards 2025Enter 2025 Wins GiveawayTakeaways:Celebrating wins is essential for motivation and mental health.Skipping celebrations can lead to burnout in educators.Small wins are just as important as big milestones.Celebration can be integrated into regular meetings.Personalized celebrations can have a significant impact.Community involvement strengthens the educational system.Celebrating successes builds a sense of collective efficacy.Recognition can be as simple as a handwritten note.Creating a 'wall of wins' can boost morale.Acknowledging even minor achievements is crucialLearn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Claudia Rinaldi discusses the importance of supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. She emphasizes the need for thoughtful strategies, collaboration among educators, and effective progress monitoring to ensure ELLs receive the support they need. The discussion also highlights the significance of cultural connections, data-driven decision-making, and practical strategies that can be implemented in the classroom to enhance language development and academic success for ELLs.Resources:Can Do DescriptorsSummit Session from Dr. RinaldiEnglish Language Learner Article Dr. Claudia RinaldiRequest a consultation Takeaways:MTSS provides a preventive framework for ELLs.Progress monitoring should include language development.Teachers need to collaborate and share expertise.Cultural connections enhance learning for ELLs.Data-driven decision-making is crucial for effective support.Peer-assisted learning strategies can benefit ELLs.Educators should view themselves as consultants.Background knowledge is essential for ELL success.Using native language can aid in understanding concepts.Regular meetings among educators can improve student outcomes.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and R. Keeth Matheny discuss the importance of preparing students for college and careers through the development of essential skills, particularly emotional intelligence and soft skills. They explore how educators can integrate these skills into the curriculum, the role of parents and community in supporting students, and the real-life applications of these skills. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to education that nurtures both academic and human skills, preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce.Resources:@eqcoach_rudyCoach Rudy's Website: https://sellaunchpad.com/ ExSELent Teaching: Classroom strategies to support the social, emotional, and academic growth of studentsSchool Connect: https://school-connect.net/ College and Career Readiness Webinar How MTSS Supports College and Career Readiness for All Students Request a consultation Takeaways:Preparing students for college and careers is critical.College and career readiness involves strong academic roots and emotional intelligence.The future of work will require emotional intelligence skills.We need to grow great humans who can launch into the world.Soft skills are essential for success in life and relationships.Educators can layer soft skills into content delivery.Collaboration and communication are key skills for students.Parents and community play a vital role in reinforcing skills.Real-life applications of skills help cement learning.The future belongs to those who can master new technology while maintaining human skills.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode of Schoolin' Around, host Larissa Napolitan engages with Angie Plugge, the Director of Learning at Waverly School District in Nebraska, to discuss the implementation and impact of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in education. They explore the challenges and successes of MTSS, the importance of continuous improvement, and share real-life stories of student success. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, data analysis, and the significance of setting a strong foundation at the beginning of the school year.Resources:Waverly's SuccessGuide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation Capacity Building for MTSS Article Request a consultation Takeaways:We have to prioritize where we really want to focus.Data analysis is not intuitive.It's about helping people meet their fullest potential.We have to build capacity for sustainable capacity.There's power in stories with MTSS.We need to connect the student outcome to the teacher action.Every year your group of students is different.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to MTSS and Educational Challenges01:29 The Importance of Setting Up Structures04:17 Angie's Journey with MTSS06:53 The Role of Data in MTSS09:54 The Impact of MTSS on Student Success12:41 Gradual Release and Building Capacity15:27 Connecting Teacher Actions to Student Outcomes17:58 Celebrating Student Success and Teacher Efficacy20:59 Final Thoughts on MTSS ImplementationLearn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

The conversation explores the challenges educators face in utilizing data effectively. It highlights the overwhelming nature of data, the difficulty in extracting actionable insights, and the importance of leadership in guiding teachers to make informed decisions based on data.Resources:Article: How Meaningful Metrics Drive MTSS SuccessProgress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:Data overload can hinder effective teaching.Teachers often struggle to find actionable insights.Vague data does not provide clear guidance for educators.Leadership plays a crucial role in data utilization.Effective teaching requires clear direction from data.Data should serve as a map, not a mountain.Educators need support in interpreting data.Actionable insights can transform teaching practices.Data-driven decisions require clarity and purpose.Leadership can bridge the gap between data and teaching.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa speaks with Katie Ahsell and Trisha Senne from Community Consolidated School District 59 about the challenges and successes they have faced in supporting student needs, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They discuss the unique demographics of their district, the importance of equitable resource allocation, and the collaborative efforts made to improve their multi-tiered system of support (MTSS). The conversation highlights the significance of clear communication, data-driven decision-making, and the positive outcomes resulting from their hard work and commitment to student achievement.Resources:A Guide to Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation Middle of the Year Webinar: MTSS Momentum Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:Supporting student needs across a diverse school district is a challenge.A one size fits all approach to intervention is ineffective.Post-pandemic, the district had to adopt new curricular resources.Recognizing inequities in resource allocation was crucial for change.Collaboration among staff and departments was key to success.Evaluating and adapting intervention strategies is an ongoing process.Effective communication is essential during times of change.Celebrating successes boosts morale and confidence among staff.Commitment to continuous improvement is vital for student achievement.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Nicole Kade, Chief Education Officer of Greenfield Learning, shares her personal journey as a struggling reader and discusses the current challenges in literacy education. She emphasizes the importance of structured literacy, the need for effective teaching practices, and the role of MTSS in supporting struggling readers. Nicole also highlights the significance of engaging students and addressing emotional aspects of learning to read, while advocating for the use of technology as a supportive tool in literacy instruction.Resources:https://www.voyagersopris.com/products/reading/rewards  https://www.thereadingleague.org/compass/A Teachers Guide to Making Phonics ExplicitWebsite: www.greenfieldlearning.comFacebook: @GreenfieldLearningTwitter: @GreenfieldLearnLinkedIn: @Greenfield Learning IncBranching Minds Resources:Why We Teach Reading This Way: Understanding Literacy Basics Through the Science of ReadingLiteracy Basics SlidesEarly Literacy and Branching Minds Article Early Literacy Webinar Takeaways:Structured literacy is essential for effective reading instruction.Many students are not receiving the explicit instruction they need to learn to read.Teachers face challenges due to competing initiatives and lack of resources.MTSS provides a framework for supporting struggling readers effectively.Engagement and relationships are key to motivating students to read.Technology can enhance literacy instruction when used intentionally.Addressing emotional aspects of learning is crucial for student success.Teachers need to be equipped with the right tools and training to support literacy.It's never too late for students to learn to read.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Dr. Jess Plaza discuss the critical topic of school safety within the framework of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). They explore the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for students, emphasizing the need for both physical and emotional safety. Dr. Plaza shares insights on proactive versus reactive approaches to safety, the challenges of implementing safety protocols, and the significance of team dynamics in threat assessments. The discussion also highlights the role of data in identifying student needs and the importance of community support in fostering a holistic educational environment.Resources:Guide: Threat Assessment Guide Article: Assessing Threats and Preventing Danger in Schools: A Multi-Tiered Process2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:School safety is a top priority for educators.Emotional and psychological safety is harder to address than physical safety.Proactive approaches can prevent crises in schools.Clear structures and routines help create a predictable environment.MTSS should address both academic and social-emotional needs equally.Data from threat assessments is crucial for planning interventions.Community support enhances the effectiveness of school safety measures.Training staff on responses to crises is essential.Building a sense of belonging improves student engagement.Confidentiality must be balanced with the need for support.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Maria Laws explore the intersection of AI and education, discussing how AI can empower both educators and students. They delve into the potential of AI tools to enhance learning experiences, support diverse student needs, and alleviate some of the burdens faced by teachers. The discussion emphasizes the importance of collaboration, addressing resistance to AI, and navigating the ambiguity that comes with adopting new technologies in educational settings. Ultimately, they highlight the role of educators in shaping the future of AI in classrooms and the need for a mindset shift towards embracing innovation.Resources:AI for Educators Future of Meetings with AI Article Maria Laws LinkedInhttps://scale.stanford.edu/genai/repository 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:AI tools promise enhanced ease and efficiency in education.Maria Laws emphasizes the global impact of AI on education.AI can empower students to take charge of their learning.AI tools can support teachers in meeting diverse student needs.Educators need to feel comfortable navigating AI tools.Collaboration among educators is crucial for effective AI integration.Resistance to AI often stems from fear and uncertainty.Professional development should focus on experimentation with AI.AI is a part of students' lives and should be integrated into education.Empowering educators is key to successful AI adoption.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This episode explores how meaningful, timely, and growth-oriented feedback drives continuous improvement within schools and MTSS frameworks. Drawing from classroom experiences and leadership examples, the host demonstrates how feedback—when specific, collaborative, and actionable—empowers educators, strengthens instructional practice, and fosters a culture of trust. The discussion moves from why feedback matters to practical strategies for giving and receiving it effectively, highlighting its essential role in creating thriving, reflective school communities. Resources:Article: Building Trust and MTSS Buy-In Through Teacher FeedbackStudent Feedback Article MTSS Coaching Toolkit 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:Feedback is a Growth Engine, Not a Task: When feedback focuses on learning and trust rather than evaluation, it becomes a catalyst for lasting improvement.Be Specific and Actionable: Effective feedback targets behaviors, not personality, and offers concrete examples that lead to real classroom changes.Create Dialogue, Not Monologue: Feedback should be a two-way conversation where reflection and collaboration drive ownership of professional growth.Build a Culture of Psychological Safety: Schools thrive when teachers feel safe to both give and receive feedback without fear—encouraging vulnerability, reflection, and continuous learning.Model and Embed Feedback in Daily Practice: Leaders should model openness by inviting feedback on their own work and weave feedback into existing systems for ongoing improvement.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

Larissa and her guest, Ashley Pennell, former Assistant Director of Special Education, explore the misconceptions surrounding accommodations in special education, emphasizing the importance of understanding their purpose and the need for individualized support. The discussion highlights the necessity of involving students in their learning process and creating a supportive classroom environment that removes stigmas around asking for help.Resources:https://www.ncld.org/ https://www.understood.org/ https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504 Special Ed Article Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success Request a consultation 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Takeaways:Accommodations provide access, not unfair advantages.Misunderstandings about accommodations stem from lack of education.It's essential to regularly evaluate the need for accommodations.Involving students in discussions about their accommodations is crucial.Creating a supportive classroom environment helps reduce stigma.Accommodations can be temporary and should be re-evaluated.Personalized accommodations are necessary for student success.Leveling the playing field is vital for students with disabilities.Educators must understand the difference between accommodations and modifications.It's okay for students to ask for help and use tools to succeed.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI in education, focusing on its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the importance of AI literacy for both students and educators, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in addressing educational equity. Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford, shares insights on how AI can support underserved communities, the barriers to implementing innovative educational practices, and practical advice for education leaders navigating this evolving landscape.Resources:https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/digital-learning/https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/scale/ https://scale.stanford.edu/ai/repository https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/story/what-does-ai-mean-for-learners-with-disabilities/ https://www.teachai.org/toolkit https://www.teachai.org/ https://www.cosn.org/  Blog: AI for Educators: Game Changing Tools That Make Your Life EasierBranchings MTSS Assistant Dottie: https://www.branchingminds.com/dottie-ai-mtss Request a consultation Takeaways:AI is reshaping education by enhancing teaching and learning.AI literacy is essential for both students and educators.The potential of AI in education is still being explored.AI can help close achievement gaps for underserved communities.Reimagining education with AI requires innovative thinking.Education leaders face challenges in implementing AI effectively.AI tools can streamline administrative tasks for teachers.Building a culture of AI literacy is crucial for future success.AI can support personalized learning experiences for students.Collaboration between educators and AI developers is key.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation focuses on the structure and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams in educational settings. The speakers discuss the importance of accountability, data-driven decision-making, and the roles and responsibilities within MTSS teams. They emphasize the need for effective meeting structures and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to improve student outcomes. The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership and collaboration in implementing MTSS successfully.Resources:MTSS Meetings Guide Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:MTSS is essential for improving student outcomes.Effective teaming structures are crucial for collaboration.Data-driven decision-making enhances the MTSS process.Qualitative data provides insights that quantitative data may miss.Clear roles and responsibilities improve team efficiency.Regular meetings are necessary for effective MTSS implementation.Agendas help keep meetings focused and productive.Building a supportive schedule is key to MTSS success.Leadership plays a vital role in MTSS effectiveness.Starting small can lead to significant improvements.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) and the importance of analyzing screening data to identify patterns that indicate the effectiveness of core instruction and interventions. She emphasizes the need to address issues such as flipped triangles, upward tier movement, and demographic disparities to create a more equitable educational system. The conversation highlights the significance of strengthening core instruction, ensuring targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration among educators to meet the diverse needs of students.Resources:Article: Understanding MTSS Tier Levels: Common Problems and SolutionsArticle: Flipped MTSS Triangle? Effective Strategies for School Administrators.2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:About 80% of students should thrive with Tier 1 core instruction.A flipped triangle indicates a system problem, not a student problem.Strengthening Tier 1 is essential before supporting Tiers 2 and 3.Dynamic MTSS allows students to move between tiers based on response to instruction.Quality and quantity of interventions are crucial for success.Demographic disparities require an equity check in support systems.Implicit bias can influence student identification for support.Core instruction must be rigorous and evidence-based.Collaboration among educators is key to effective MTSS implementation.Data analysis should drive strategic decisions in education.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Whitley Dozier and Larissa discuss the complexities of change management in education, addressing common misconceptions, the role of leadership, and the importance of communication. They emphasize that change is a continuous process that requires ongoing support and understanding of the people involved. The discussion highlights the need for a shared vision, the significance of recognizing resistance as a signal for support, and the necessity of embedding change into the culture of educational institutions.Resources:Article: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for ChangeAdministrators Guide to Supporting Teachers Capacity Building for MTSS Article Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation Request a consultation 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Takeaways:Change management has three components: people-focused, process-driven, and outcome-oriented.Misconceptions about change often lead to ineffective communication strategies.Strong leadership is important, but change must be a collective effort.Ongoing communication and feedback are essential for successful change implementation.Resistance to change can stem from overload and lack of clarity.Change is a continuous process, not a one-time event.Celebrating small wins can help maintain momentum in change initiatives.Understanding the context and experiences of educators is crucial for effective change management.Change management should involve co-creation and shared vision among stakeholders.Effective change management requires a focus on both quantitative and qualitative outcomes.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Andrew Shanock discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in schools. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven instruction, the need for effective teacher training, and the distinction between best practices and good practices in education. Dr. Shanock also highlights the significance of sustaining MTSS over time and building a supportive educational environment to ensure student success.Resources:Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit Principal Leadership Article Article: 5 Factors for District Leaders to Align Vision and Action with MTSSDr. Shanock LinkedInTakeaways:MTSS implementation can be challenging due to misconceptions.Data quality is crucial for effective MTSS.Teachers often lack training in effective instructional practices.Best practices should be viewed as good practices.Sustaining MTSS requires consistent leadership and support.Professional development is essential for teacher effectiveness.Collaboration among educators is key to MTSS success.Understanding student growth is more important than benchmarks.Schools must adapt practices to their unique contexts.Building a supportive environment is vital for student success.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Ramiro Rubalcaba shares his journey from a teacher's assistant to the superintendent of the Los Nietos School District. He emphasizes the importance of building a legacy in education, creating sustainable systems, and fostering a culture of trust and wellness within the school community. Dr. Rubalcaba discusses strategies for shifting mindsets among educators and the significance of work-life balance for leaders and staff.Resources:The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning Superintendents and MTSS Webinar Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers TakeawaysThe greatest legacy is building leaders who can sustain the work.Effective leadership is about service, not power.Creating a positive culture is essential for organizational success.Trust is either present or absent; there's no in-between.High expectations are necessary for excellence in education.Wellness initiatives are crucial for staff and student success.Systems and processes must align with desired outcomes.Engaging families in decision-making strengthens the community.Leaders must delegate and trust their teams to innovate.Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations is key.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

​​In this conversation, Larissa and Ashlie Cox discuss the myth that more homework leads to more learning. They explore the purpose of homework, the impact of excessive assignments on students, and the equity challenges faced by those without resources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of meaningful homework that has a clear purpose and relates to real-world applications, while also providing alternatives to traditional homework. The conversation concludes with advice for educators and parents on how to approach homework in a way that supports student learning without causing stress.Resources:Article: Student Engagement: Why it’s Important and How to Promote itArticle: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS TierCore Instruction Guide Takeaways:More homework doesn't necessarily lead to more learning.Homework should have a clear purpose and be minimal.Excessive homework can lead to student burnout and stress.Equity issues arise when homework requires resources not all students have.Meaningful homework should relate to real-world applications.Busy work does not teach discipline or reinforce learning.Parents often expect homework as a sign of learning.Teachers should consider the time students have for homework.Alternatives to traditional homework can enhance engagement.Rethinking homework can improve student outcomes.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the transformative potential of the MTSS framework in schools. She emphasizes the importance of building a shared vision among staff, engaging them in the process, and leading with purpose. The conversation covers practical strategies for implementing MTSS, including gradual rollouts, celebrating progress, and empowering teachers to take leadership roles. Larissa shares real-life examples and actionable insights to help leaders foster a collaborative culture that supports every student's success.Resources:Slide Template: Introducing MTSS to Your TeamLeader Protocol Guide for Buy-In Request a consultation Takeaways:MTSS is a framework designed to meet the needs of all students.Leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of MTSS.Buy-in from the team starts with understanding the 'why'.Connecting MTSS to shared values can enhance engagement.A phased rollout of MTSS helps reduce resistance.Modeling vulnerability as a leader builds trust.Celebrating small wins keeps morale high.Empowering teachers fosters ownership and investment.Creating leadership teams can bridge gaps between staff and administration.MTSS is an opportunity to strengthen the school community.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation with author Mitch Weathers, delves into the concept of executive functioning in education, emphasizing its importance for student success. The speakers discuss the challenges students face in managing their time and tasks, the significance of establishing routines, and the need for educators to explicitly teach executive functioning skills. They highlight the role of working memory in learning and the impact of a supportive and predictable learning environment. The discussion also touches on the importance of collective efficacy among educators to create a cohesive approach to teaching and learning.Resources:Executive Function Toolkit Executive Function in MTSS Organized BinderWebinar: Ask the Author: Executive Functioning in Every ClassroomTakeaways:Executive functioning is crucial for goal-oriented behavior.Students need explicit instruction on executive functioning skills.The hidden curriculum can significantly impact student success.Predictability in routines helps students feel safe and engaged.Working memory is the engine for learning and retention.Collective efficacy among educators enhances student outcomes.Teaching skills should be a universal approach, not just for struggling students.Repetition and practice are key to mastering executive functioning skills.Creating a supportive learning environment reduces cognitive load.Students can transfer executive functioning skills to real-world situations.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!