Online Courses for Teachers

A Multi-Tiered System of Supports for Students who Challenge Us

(Grades K-5) / Flex Course

PDI Course Number: 133T02 / UCSD Course Number: EDUC42312

Course Description

As a busy elementary school teacher, do you find it difficult to support all your students’ individual academic and behavioral needs? Do you have certain students who challenge you more than others? This online course for teachers is designed for educators in grades K-5 who want to learn how to use a multi-tiered system to support all their students’ academic, behavior, and social-emotional needs. Universal screening measures are examined as well as using data to guide decisions within the classroom, with a focus on identifying students at-risk for poor academic outcomes. Information on academic supports is shared including universal design for learning, culturally responsive teaching, differentiated instruction, and instilling a growth mindset in students. Specific multi-tiered strategies are introduced to help teachers support students who struggle behaviorally. Teachers will learn the importance of utilizing reinforcement techniques, preference assessments, extinction plans, functional behavior assessments, and behavior intervention plans. A variety of social-emotional strategies are also discussed, including social skills instruction and compassionate practices to support students’ mental health. By the end of this continuing education course, teachers will feel more confident and successful in their quest to embed a multi-tiered system of supports within their own teaching practices to better support students with specific learning needs, including those who have been exposed to trauma, those with language differences, and those who have learning disabilities. This online professional development course is worth 3 ⅓ semester units/5 quarter units (50 hours of training) from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Division of Extended Studies. For detailed information on receiving university credit for your PDI professional development course, visit our credit page.

Need help? Kimya Nabavi, PDI Program Coordinator, is ready to assist.

"I really enjoyed this class and appreciated that I did not have to purchase a textbook to access the materials. I truly feel I have a better understanding of the MTSS model after taking this class." - Kelsey Young