Hawaii Proficiency Tier 2
Defining Tier 2 Proficiency in Hawaii's Educational Context
In Hawaii's educational system, "Tier 2 proficiency" typically describes a level of student academic or linguistic performance indicating a need for targeted, supplemental support. This designation is commonly understood within the framework of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), which the Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) employs to address diverse student learning needs.
Key Characteristics of Students at Tier 2
- Exhibit performance below established grade-level proficiency standards or language development benchmarks.
- Have not achieved adequate progress solely through universal Tier 1 instruction (core curriculum provided to all students).
- Require focused interventions to address specific skill deficits identified through systematic screening and diagnostic assessments.
- Are distinct from Tier 3 students, who require more intensive and individualized support due to more significant needs.
Nature of Tier 2 Interventions and Support
Interventions at Tier 2 are designed to be evidence-based and supplement, not replace, core classroom instruction. Common components include:
- Targeted Small-Group Instruction: Providing instruction in smaller settings (typically 3-5 students) to address specific, shared learning needs.
- Skill-Specific Focus: Concentrating on particular academic areas (e.g., reading comprehension, mathematical problem-solving, writing skills) or specific language skills for English Learners (ELs).
- Increased Instructional Time/Frequency: Offering additional instructional opportunities, such as extra sessions per week, beyond core teaching.
- Systematic Progress Monitoring: Regularly tracking student progress (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly) using appropriate assessment tools to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and guide instructional adjustments. Successful response may lead to a return to Tier 1 support, while insufficient progress may necessitate modification of the intervention or consideration for Tier 3 support.
Objective of Tier 2 Support
The primary objective of Tier 2 support is to accelerate student learning, enabling them to reach proficiency benchmarks and succeed within the universal Tier 1 instructional environment. It acts as an early, systematic response to prevent the escalation of learning difficulties and reduce the number of students needing more intensive Tier 3 interventions.
