UCFSD committee outlines MTSS rollout: SEL pilot, 'more time' math blocks and next steps

The committee heard a multi-part update on the district’s Multi‑Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Administrators described a twofold approach: an SEL resource review for elementary class meeting time and a districtwide implementation of "more time" blocks focused on math interventions.

Doctor Ryder and other administrators said a cross‑building teacher cohort (K–5) is piloting three SEL resources—Everyday Speech, Second Step and Be Good People—with some tools free and others paid. The teacher cohort will meet in about a month to provide feedback; administrators expect to bring recommendations to the board in April and noted purchases will follow the district’s vetting processes.

For math, principals from Hillandale and Chadds Ford described how "more time" functions as targeted instruction built into the school day for both enrichment and remediation. Teams use I‑Ready diagnostics, STAR Math and classroom assessments to group students into tier 1 (baseline instruction), tier 2 (roughly 10–15% of students needing targeted support) and tier 3 (top 5% intensity) groupings. The district is experimenting with scheduling and is using grade‑level planning sessions (half‑day meetings) to create shared practices; administrators said additional implementation monitoring and refinements are planned after spring break.

Board members asked about how best practices will be disseminated and how many more "more time" sessions remain this school year; administrators said additional PD and principal meetings are scheduled and that one more "more time" cycle is planned before year end. The board acknowledged the work as a developing process that balances district guidance with teacher flexibility.