For all students
Tier 1
Strong, high-quality classroom instruction and clearly taught expectations that reach every student, every day.
Support Services
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
P.S. 83's Academic Ladder of Support — how we give every child the right help, at the right time, in addition to strong classroom teaching.
How the ladder works
Multi-Tiered System of Supports, or MTSS, is the framework P.S. 83 uses to make sure every child gets the right help at the right time. We picture it as a ladder: at the base, all students receive strong, everyday classroom instruction (Tier 1); some students receive extra small-group help (Tier 2); and a few students receive very intensive, individualized support (Tier 3).
All extra help is in addition to regular classroom teaching, not instead of it. Our Ladders of Support cover learning, punctuality, attendance, and behavior, so a child who needs a boost in one area still keeps the full benefit of their classroom day.
Three tiers of support
Every ladder is built on the same three tiers. Support is added on top of the classroom day, never in place of it.
For some students
Tier 2
Extra small-group help, check-ins, and targeted support added on top of Tier 1 teaching.
For a few students
Tier 3
Very intensive, individualized support, plans, and services for students with the greatest need.
Our Ladders of Support
P.S. 83 keeps a Ladder of Support for each part of school life. Here is what each one does for students and families.
P.S. 83's Academic Ladder of Support
Ladder of Support for Learning
This ladder shows how P.S. 83 supports students' learning in reading, writing, and math at different levels of need. At the bottom, all students receive strong classroom instruction (Tier 1); some students receive extra small-group help (Tier 2); and a few students receive very intensive, individualized support (Tier 3). All extra help is in addition to regular classroom teaching, not instead of it.
Helping students arrive on time
Ladder of Support for Punctuality
This ladder explains how we help students who are often late to school. First, teachers and staff use gentle reminders and positive encouragement; if lateness continues, we add phone calls, problem-solving meetings with families, and written plans to improve punctuality. When lateness is very frequent, school leaders and support staff work closely with the family to remove barriers so the child can arrive on time.
Keeping students connected to school
Ladder of Support for Attendance
This ladder shows how we respond when a student starts missing school. At first, we monitor attendance and communicate with families; if absences add up, we provide targeted support like check-ins, conferences, and connections to services. For students with very high absence rates, the team creates an intensive plan with the family so the child can attend school regularly and stay on track.
Building social-emotional skills
Ladder of Behavior Support
This ladder shows how we support students' behavior and social-emotional needs. At the base, all students are taught clear expectations, social skills, and positive behaviors (Tier 1); some students receive extra small-group support or check-ins (Tier 2); and a few students receive intensive, individualized plans and services (Tier 3). The goal is not punishment, but helping every child learn the skills they need to succeed in class and with peers.
Understanding NYC Chancellor's Regulations
Our MTSS ladders connect directly to the NYC Chancellor's Regulations, which guide how schools handle issues like behavior, safety, and student rights.
P.S. 83's approach focuses on early support, problem-solving, and clear communication with families, while following all city rules that protect students.
FAQ — What does MTSS mean for my child?
What if my child is struggling?
We identify students who need extra support early — often within the first weeks of school. Your child won't wait months to get help. We'll reach out, share what we're seeing, and create a plan together.
What if my child needs more of a challenge?
Enrichment is also part of our Ladder of Support. High-achieving students are not left to coast — they receive work that stretches their thinking and deepens their skills.
Will I know if my child is in a support tier?
Yes. Families are always informed and involved when additional support is provided. We believe parents are partners in this process.
Questions about your child's support?
Families are partners in the MTSS process. If you would like to talk about your child's learning, attendance, or behavior support, our team is here to help.