Response to Intervention (RTI) in the Montessori Environment
The child's development follows a path of successive stages of independence, and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. —Maria Montessori The Absorbent Mind, p. 281. One of the big buzz terms in American education today is “Response to Intervention” (RTI). RTI is a multi-tier approach “to the early identification and support of students with learning and behavior needs.” (RTI Action Network) Beginning at the classroom instructional level, struggling learners are identified and screened for learning and behavioral challenges. Learning objectives are stated and modifications to both instruction and the environment are put into place. Students are closely monitored to asses the individual response to these interventions. The essential components of implementing RTI are: High-quality, scientifically based instruction Ongoing student assessment Tiered, differentiated instruction Parent involvement Montessori and Response to Intervention (RTI): We’re already doi...