MTSS Integrated Conference 25

Students learn best and flourish most when assured of their belonging. Yet, too many schools, workplaces, and communities still struggle to become places of widespread and meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. In his presentation, Dr. Carter will share a powerful framework for reflecting upon and fostering belonging within our classrooms and schools. Together, we will explore the implications of this work on the ways we welcome, support, educate, and embrace students with disabilities.

The Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network (IPTN) is a partnership among Washington’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and statewide education, advocacy, and community organizations. Launched in 2023, it builds on earlier inclusion efforts to disrupt segregated systems and reduce disproportionality, with a specific focus on student experiencing the highest levels of exclusion  - - students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and Black students with disabilities.  Districts are invited to hear from these organizations to learn about the professional development and technical assistance they are providing and to hear more about grant funding available to partner with these TA providers. Dr. Cassie Martin, Executive Director of Special Education at OSPI will be there to answer questions and to describe the workings and outcomes of the IPTN.

To learn more about these technical assistance providers, please visit the IPTN website https://ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/support-programs/inclusionary-practices-technical-assistance-network-iptn

Learn how three regional examples aligned their MTSS and reduced exclusionary discipline, improved attendance, perceptions of belonging, and reading.

This presentation highlights a model where school-based clinicians collaborate within schools througha regionalbehavioral health agency, using ISF and MTSS to integrate educational and mental health support. Participants will gain insights on team-based support, data-driven interventions, and sustaining successful, integrated behavioral health partnerships.

The MASH model strengthens inclusive, trauma-assumed systems through interdisciplinary coaching. This session explores how MASH builds school, family, and agency partnerships to support students with behavioral health needs. Participants will learn how to shift mindsets from student “fixing” to adult capacity-building, create emotionally safe environments, and engage in systems-level problem-solving.

A thriving AAC-affirming school is like a well-tended garden—rooted in beliefs, supported by training and policies, and nurtured through daily implementation by a community of educators, SLPs, paraeducators, administrators, and peers. This session offers actionable strategies to embed AAC across environments, foster peer inclusion, and sustain long-term change. Explore leadership-driven initiatives, tiered professional development, and classroom integration techniques to cultivate a communication-rich culture where all students blossom as communicators.

"While the pandemic may seem behind us, its effects continue to impact our
educational communities. Student behaviors are intense, staff needs are complex, and the gap
between surviving and thriving can feel insurmountable. Still, I am unwavering in my belief that
when we bring relationships and community to their hearts, we will strengthen our systems and
bring academic achievement and social/emotional competence to their minds. Working
together to heal the harms from the last several years will open the door for us to bring trust,
clarity, consistency, and, ultimately, improved outcomes to our schools."

Students in foster care often face unique and significant challenges such as trauma, instability, and disrupted educational experiences, that can affect their academic, social, and emotional well-being. Comprehensive frameworks such as MTSS are the most effective way to address the diverse needs of these students. This session will explore how MTSS can be implemented specifically for students in foster care to ensure equitable access to education and provide educational stability.

Exemplar districts will share how they've leveraged key partnerships to develop buy-in for universal screening. Participants will learn about how universal screening data can be used to promote education equity for all students. This session will demonstrate approaches that foster adults' cultural competence and an interconnected approach to enhancing comprehensive school mental health.

As student behavior concerns and educator burnout rise, it’s time to reimagine support through student voice and agency within MTSS. This session highlights two transformative, student-centered approaches—Restorative Justice Centers (RJC) and student Equity Communities of Practice (ECOPs). Discover how these structures empower students to shape a more inclusive and supportive school climate. Join us for an engaging, solutions-driven conversation that repositions students as key partners in driving meaningful school change.

Join Ali Hearn for an interactive follow-up session to the Keynote! You’ll not only deepen your
understanding of Restorative Practices through real-time engagement but also have the
opportunity to ask questions, share insights, and explore practical strategies for implementation.
This is your chance to connect directly with Ali and gain clarity on how to make Restorative
Practices a meaningful part of your school community.

Multiple measures are available to support district and building leadership teams in evaluating MTSS implementation. This session provides an overview of the Center on MTSS Fidelity of Implementation Rubric (2025) and a recently developed interview, facilitator’s guide, and resource document funded by the Washington AIMS project. Participants will learn about the purpose, strengths, and challenges of multiple tools and will understand how the use of these measures can be combined for comprehensive school improvement efforts.