Existing systems of support at a site
It is important to clarify what systems of support are already in place and functioning at a school site. To do this, the MTSS team can work together to brainstorm what supports are currently in place for all, some, and few students with the areas of focus for MTSS work. A reference of SUHSD supports within all tiers is located on page 7 of this handbook.

Teams can first brainstorm together using Appendix 2: Systems of Support to determine:
What supports exist now in each of these areas?
What supports does the team imagine for the ideal future of the school?
What are the starting points for beginning to build from the existing strengths towards the future we have imagined?

Example of a Site’s Systems of Supports and Resources in Place

Resource Mapping
Resource mapping is a process that allows a school site to identify and leverage existing resources to enhance the implementation of the MTSS framework. This involves identifying and inventorying the current resources available to the school site, including personnel, materials, and programs. By mapping available resources, the school site can determine how to allocate resources more effectively to support student needs and achieve desired outcomes. This process can also help identify gaps in resources and inform decision-making around future resource allocation. All stakeholders–teachers, administrators, families, and community members–should contribute to the resource mapping process to ensure all perspectives are included and resources align with the needs of the school and community. A template to aid in identifying resources is found in Appendix 3: Resource Identification.

Once resources are identified, the school site can create a resource map that displays the resources and how they can be utilized to support the MTSS framework. This map can help identify gaps in resources and guide allocation of resources.