Implementing Successful RTI at the Secondary Level
I have been writing a series of articles for an educational journal and was reminded
how challenging it can be, for both the student and the teacher, when students
transition from elementary to middle school, and from middle school to high school.
Teacher working with a student one-on-one. Whether we call it differentiated
instruction, inclusion, or Response to Intervention (RTI), one important fact is always
present - as educators, we have a responsibility to adapt our approaches, and to
differentiate for our students, in ways that benefit them at whatever level of
development they happen to be. Implementing successful RTI at the secondary level is
a challenge that yields rich rewards.
We all know that the structure of middle and high schools is very different from that of
elementary schools – this means that the structure and implementation of RTI must be
different, too.
Scheduling Interventions
In the secondary grades, where students move from class to class through the course
of the day, and need those classes to achieve the required number of credits to
graduate, two things are required from us, as educators:
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As classroom teachers, we must take the time to differentiate our lessons,
employ effective grouping practices, and assess frequently in order to see
academic growth.
As special educators and administrators, we must be creative in our scheduling
of Tier 2 and 3 interventions so that students don't miss out on the critical
learning being offered by the classroom teacher.
It takes the combined efforts of the school community; teachers, specialists,
administrators, parents, AND students - to effectively schedule and provide the
supports that some of our students need.
Differentiating for ALL Learners
I like to call RTI "Really Terrific Instruction" because if we, as educators, do our jobs
correctly, we have the opportunity to reach most of our student population - gifted
through at-risk.
Teach to the learning preferences of your students
Utilize grouping strategies like Fitzell Acceleration Centers to challenge top students as
well as target review of critical material with struggling learners.
Assess students frequently using simple strategies like exit cards and adjust instruction
based on that current data.
Intervene Carefully
There will be students, no matter how terrific the classroom instruction, who need
additional supports beyond those provided by the classroom teacher.
When applying Tier 2 and 3 interventions, carefully consider
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
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The student's course schedule
Learning preferences
The interventions required
RTI should enhance and support the student's understanding and retention of key
course material. Interventions supplement grade-level instruction; they do not replace
it. Just as teachers may offer extra help to teachers before and after school, a
successful secondary RTI program may need to offer opportunities for intervention
outside of the school day through after-school or weekend programs.
Successfully educating today's youth requires responsible action from everyone in the
school community.
Administrators - Monitor and actively support the efforts of your general and
special education staff to differentiate their classes for today's learners.
Teachers and specialists - Embrace the responsibility of teaching "to" your
students rather than "at" them so that you, too may experience the joy and
excitement that comes from making a difference for kids.
Parents - Support your teen's education by taking the time to understand how
they learn best.
Students - Take responsibility for your learning. Discover your strengths,
understand how you learn, and advocate for your own understanding.
What part do you play in the successful education of today's youth? What strategies
have you found to be most successful?
Copyright © 2013, Susan Fitzell & Aim Hi Educational Programs, LLC. First published
October 18, 2013.
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Susan Fitzell, M. Ed, CSP, is a nationally recognized presenter, author of nine books for
teachers, trainers, and parents, an educational consultant, and CEO of Aim Hi
Educational Programs, LLC. As an independent consultant and coach, Susan offers the
personalization, continuity, and consistency necessary for true change in any
organization. She works side by side with teachers, school administrators, and business
leaders as a coach and trainer, employing Brain Power strategies that take learning to
the next level.
For more information, visit Susan's website at www.susanfitzell.com.
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