Tier II/Tier III and Behavioral Health

Tier II (Secondary)

Based on the public health model, a key component of the PBIS Framework is offering a continuum of support and services to help students succeed behaviorally and academically. Some students will respond to the Tier 1 level of support but will still exhibit some specific difficulties. These students may be demonstrating academic and/or behavioral deficits that will require more intensive supports. It is estimated about 10-15 percent of students will need additional supports beyond, yet in combination with, Tier I-level (Universal) interventions.

Tier II interventions are direct interventions implemented in a standardized approach, meaning key features of the intervention look similar across all children receiving the intervention. Since Tier II interventions are standardized, there should be continuous availability, which allows for quick access to the intervention. These interventions are geared toward skill development and/or increasing protective factors for students and their families. Examples of Tier II interventions include, but are not limited to, Check-In and Check-Out programs and skill development groups.

Tier II interventions typically occur after an identified concern generates a referral from the parent(s), teacher(s), or counselor(s) or when a universal screening measure identifies a student or group of students at potential risk. Risk factors do not necessarily indicate poor outcomes, but rather refer to statistical predictors that suggest barriers to learning. Examples of risk factors may include loss of a parent or loved one, frequent moves resulting in multiple school placements or exposure to violence and trauma.

Tier III (Tertiary)

Tier III interventions are intensive, individualized interventions for students exhibiting severe or persistent behavioral challenges who have not responded to prior supports at the Tier I or Tier II levels. Typical Tier III interventions involve in-depth, individual behavior analysis and behavior intervention planning. Examples of Tier III interventions include, but are not limited to, creation of the Functional Behavioral Assessment and Behavioral Intervention Plan and linkage with community mental health agencies and/or wraparound support.

Important Resources

• Center on PBIS, Tier II
• Center on PBIS, Tier III
• Tier III Student-level Systems Guide
• Advancing Education Effectiveness: Interconnecting School Mental Health and School-wide Positive Behavior Support
• Mental Health, Social, and Emotional Screening and Evaluation Compendium

Additional Links

• Center for School Based Mental Health Programs
• Every Moment Counts
• Anti-Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Model Policy
• Ohio School Safety Center
• ODE Restraint, Seclusion & PBIS

Last Modified: 5/9/2023 2:50:07 PM

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