Which framework emphasizes a continuum of proactive, preventative, school-wide, evidence-based interventions to improve academic and behavioral outcomes for all students?

• A. Response to Intervention (RTI)
• B. Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
• C. Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS)
• D. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Answer: (C)

A framework that uses a school-wide, proactive, preventative approach with a continuum of evidence-based interventions to support all students is PBIS. It starts by setting universal behavioral expectations for everyone, teaching those expectations, and reinforcing positive behavior across all settings. Data are collected to monitor how well these practices work, and supports are arranged in tiers: universal for all students, targeted for some, and intensive for a few. This structure aims to create a positive, predictable school climate, reduce disruptive behaviors, and in turn support learning—so behavior problems don’t get in the way of academic gains.

RTI focuses mainly on academic interventions, MTSS is the broader umbrella that blends RTI and PBIS, and SEL centers on developing social-emotional skills rather than implementing the school-wide system of behavior supports described.