Interview with classroom teacher

1)    How do you apply RtI model at the school level?

At the school level point sheets are most exclusively used for behavior which includes be respectful, be safe, and be responsible categories. Most students are on point sheets when they have multiple referrals/write ups. Some students are put on point sheets because they are internalizers and we are concerned about their participation or stress levels. Occasionally a student is put on a point sheet for academic reasons like missing assignments, but that is pretty rare.

2)    Which strategies do you apply in your class?

I use grouping arrangement of five to six students in my class. I try to put the students who has difficulties in the front side, so they can concentrate well in the class. Sometimes the students with difficulties are placed with bright students so they work together and can learn from each other. I change the groups every few weeks. When the students work on the practice problems, I put them in different groups. I and a special aid teacher call the groups one by one to work with us on one to one basis. We call those students first who need more support. So that they can ask if they have any doubt or question. The special need students get services from special aids. Some students get simplified question forms or with the hints.

3)    If the student has still difficulties in the subject in regular class then what needs to be done?

           Students are placed into the extra Acceleration class when they score consistently at            the 40th percentile or below on MAP. If they score in that range on 2 or more tests in              a row then we put them in the class until either they do better on MAP or if the                        Acceleration teacher has enough evidence that they have improved. They are usually            in the class the entire year, but a few students have transitioned out after 1 or 2                      trimesters.

4)    Do the teachers use any positive reinforcement techniques?

           Yes, all the teachers apply different reinforcement techniques. A student is                              recognized for doing well through the week and a teacher puts his/her name on the                certificate on classroom wall. We also use token system which can be used to buy                  food in the school.