Measuring Implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS): Development and Validation of the Integrated MTSS Fidelity Rubric (IMFR)

The Integrated MTSS Fidelity Rubric (IMFR) is a 14-item measure of elementary school implementation of integrated multi-tiered systems of support (I-MTSS). With I-MTSS, schools strategically use assessment to guide intervention that addresses the integrated nature of students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs. The goal for this study was to develop and validate the IMFR as a measurement tool that is useful and relevant for school practitioners and researchers who deliver and study intervention for students in elementary schools. The IMFR was validated through 3 years of iterative administration, psychometric testing, and refinement, using a nationwide U.S. sample that ranged from 65 to 87 elementary schools across 13–20 districts in a given administration year. Analyses examined content validity, substantive validity, structural validity, and generalizability. In addition, the study examined usability through focus groups with participating school teams. Overall, we conclude that the IMFR is a reliable and valid measure of I-MTSS implementation and is useful to school and district practitioners.