Response-to-Intervention Phase I Training for Nebraska

This project was initiated based on a request from the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) personnel and the Nebraska Response-to-Intervention (RtI) Ad-Hoc Committee. Recent legislation (IDEA, 2004) now requires that states implement an RtI framework as an alternative to traditional special education identification and placement and as a means of serving at-risk students. As part of this initiative, this project focused on the development of introductory training presentations on critical components of service delivery related to RtI. The presentations for the project set the stage for more in-depth supports offered through a long-term training plan.

Project presentations will be available through the web/DVDs and focus on the following:

1. The problem solving model. An initial introduction to the problem solving model and its utility within an RtI framework is provided. The stages of the model are described (Problem Identification, Problem Analysis, Goal Setting, Treatment Implementation, and Treatment Evaluation) along with practical issues surrounding model implementation.
2. Multi-tiered intervention provision and SLD eligibility. Multi-tiered intervention provision within an RtI framework is described. Examples of several models are outlined along with implications for serving students and for SLD eligibility.
3. Universal screening and progress monitoring. A rationale is presented for conducting universal screening and for regularly monitoring students' response to instruction or intervention. Several examples of tools for screening and progress monitoring are provided along with guidelines for their use.
4. Intervention selection and implementation. Various approaches are outlined for selecting and implementing interventions matched to student needs. Recommendations are provided for adopting approaches within a school.
5. Teaming. The use of team approaches to service delivery provided within an RtI framework is described and suggestions are offered for strengthening school-based teams.
6. Practical issues in implementing RtI. To assist school personnel with specific concerns about RtI, information on practical implementation issues is presented through interviews with personnel from the state RtI model demonstration sites.

For this project, a user-friendly website was developed to offer guidance to regional Educational Service Units and districts and to disseminate information on RtI. Additional media may also be developed as requested.

For additional information on this investigation, please contact:

Dr. Edward Daly, III

Project Key Investigators: Edward Daly, III (PI), Merilee McCurdy (Co-PI), Todd Glover (Co-PI), Elizabeth Doll (Co-PI)