ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we provide a brief overview of tiered systems and their implications for students with disabilities, focusing the balance of the discussion on the Comprehensive, Integrated, Three-Tiered (Ci3T) model of prevention. We focus on Ci3T, as it is currently the only integrated system featuring academic, behavioral, and social domains in one framework. Next, we share lessons learned from various research teams on the three domains constituting the base of the Ci3T model. After describing Ci3T and noting distinguishing features, we introduce the potential benefits of tiered systems as a whole. In brief, we contend that when implemented with integrity, tiered systems such as Ci3T have the potential to facilitate inclusion and harness the collective strengths of stakeholders committed to meeting students’ multiple needs. We offer respectful suggestions regarding the potential value of tiered systems for students with exceptionalities.
