What is Response to Intervention (RtI)?
RtI is a three-tier (or three-step) prevention, early identification and intervention strategy provided in general education. The learning of ALL students is assessed early and often. RtI refers to a process that emphasizes how well students respond to changes in instruction. RtI uses standards-aligned and research-based interventions at increasing levels of intensity to support students who struggle with reading and math and to help them reach state standards. RtI depends on a strong, standards-aligned, research-based core curriculum (the general education curriculum) and school-wide behavior program. Perhaps the most important benefit of an RtI approach is that it is not a wait to fail model because students get help promptly in the general education setting. In Pennsylvania, ALL students have the opportunity to get help when and at the level needed in general education classes, potentially significantly reducing the number of students referred for special education services. In the
