Bringing together leading authorities, this concise, state-of-the-science Handbook delves into all aspects of problem solving-based school psychology practice. Thirty-four focused chapters present data-based methods for assessment, analysis, intervention, and evaluation, with special attention given to working in a response-to-intervention framework. Tools and guidelines are provided for promoting success in key academic domains: reading, writing, and math. Social-emotional and behavioral skills are thoroughly....

Of the many issues facing special education (and general education) today, it is difficult to imagine one more important or timely than response to intervention (RTI). Almost overnight RTI has become standard practice across the nation. Unfortunately, RTI remains ill-defined, falls far short of its evidence-based practice goal, is almost invariably misused, and often results in more harm than good. Nevertheless, as a conceptual framework RTI has great potential for ensuring that students with disabilities receive appropriate, evidence-based instruction. The mission of this handbook is to present a comprehensive and integrated discussion of response to intervention (RTI) and its relation to multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) in both special education and general education. Although the two terms are currently used interchangeably, distinct differences exist between them. Therefore, chapters are dedicated to distinguishing the two concepts—RTI and MTSS—and describing each one’s unique role in both general and special education. In addition, the authors recommend a third term, Multi-Tiered Instruction, to differentiate the practices related to the purpose of the specific intervention.

Mike Woodcock and Dave Francis are two of the most influential writers and designers of materials for team development of the last 30 years. This collection of Team Metrics brings together some of their very best material for measuring aspects of team performance. The collection includes a variety of audits, questionnaires and surveys, which can be used in a training environment or as real-time team interventions. The 27 items in the collection cover team and team leader skills, team development, team motivation, team roles, team culture, climate and communication, making this a must-have collection of team development materials for trainers, facilitators and team leaders. A CD is supplied with every manual which provides a Powerpoint slide presentation for each of the 27 metrics.

"I loved it! We in the field are in need of this type of book." —Jill Gildea, Director of Curriculum & Instruction Libertyville School District, IL "Clearly outlines how schools can work collaboratively toward creating schoolwide learning environments where effective RTI practices are implemented and data is used to inform instructional decisions about students." —Alice Hom, Principal Yung Wing Elementary P.S. 124, New York City, NY "Even as an administrator who has been trained in RTI, I found the book to be both interesting and informative. I have told other administrators to keep an eye out for it." —Jennifer Cruz, Principal Mirage Elementary School, Glendale, AZ Learn how to launch RTI successfully and improve student outcomes significantly! As a research-based model for improving reading achievement, Response to Intervention (RTI) has demonstrated dramatic results in elementary and middle schools. This practical guide provides a clear vision of what RTI looks like in practice and illustrates how educators can use this highly effective approach to help students acquire grade-appropriate reading skills or make sure students receive the support they need through special education services. The author presents an accessible step-by-step action plan for putting the RTI process in motion, emphasizes the critical role administrators play in ensuring successful implementation in their schools, and helps school leaders: Formulate a comprehensive assessment plan that includes an assessment calendar and a data management system Design a yearlong staff development plan to train teachers in using data for making instructional decisions Use data in grade-level, teacher, and parent meetings Motivate staff for optimum success without overwhelming them This authoritative text charts a straightforward course for strengthening students′ literacy skills and helping all youngsters become successful, enthusiastic readers.

Problem-solving-based assessment has been recognized as a cornerstone of improved educational outcomes for all children, yet until now no single resource has focused on the full range of problem-solving-based approaches. This book fills a crucial need by bringing together leaders in the field to review the state of the science and provide a handy primer on practice. Presented are a conceptual framework and up-to-date tools for identifying and remediating the many environmental factors that may contribute to academic, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Coverage includes problem-solving-based applications of such methods as interviews, observations, rating scales, curriculum-based measurement, functional behavioral assessment, and published tests.

Grounded in state-of-the-art research, this practical guide comprehensively shows how to harness the potential of direct behavior rating (DBR) as a tool for assessment, intervention, and communication in schools. DBR can be used rapidly and efficiently in PreK-12 classrooms to support positive behavior and promote self-management. The authors and contributors provide concrete examples of ways to implement DBR strategies within multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). The evidence base supporting each strategy is reviewed. More than 30 reproducible checklists and forms include step-by-step implementation blueprints, daily report cards, and more. Purchasers get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.

Complete and accurate documentation is one of the most important skills for a physical therapist assistant to develop and use effectively. The new Second Edition of Documentation Basics: A Guide for the Physical Therapist Assistant continues the path of teaching the student and clinician documentation from A to Z.