When implementing RTI, what is the first step educators typically take?

In the context of Response to Intervention (RTI), the initial step that educators typically take is identifying students who may need support. This involves recognizing students who are struggling academically or behaviorally, which serves as the foundation for the RTI process.

Early identification allows educators to focus their efforts on students who require additional assistance and enables them to tailor interventions that meet each student's specific needs. It is a proactive approach that emphasizes early detection, ensuring that support is provided as soon as potential challenges are identified.

The subsequent steps, such as administering standardized tests, implementing tiered interventions, or reviewing disciplinary records, typically follow this initial identification phase. These elements play a role in the overall RTI framework, but they depend on first recognizing which students are at risk and may benefit from specialized support. Thus, early identification is crucial for effective early intervention strategies.