Ask the Experts

The question of "How to Engage Veteran Teachers in RTI?" comes up repeatedly during many workshops on RTI.  There is no definitive answer.  The only advice that I give is the knowledge that the data collected through RTI makes a good teacher want to get better and great teachers will shine!  Most of our experienced teachers have ridden the tide of many educational initiatives.  RTI is not the latest educational fad.  It validates good teaching and gives more information to teachers so they may help their students.  RTI helps organize and monitor good teaching practices that have existed for years.  It also infuses many research based and validated programs that never existed 20 years ago.

I have had several teachers "put off retirement" because of the excitement generated by the validation of their teaching. I have also experienced teachers that are "counting down the days." The students in both of these classrooms continue to be monitored to assure a quality education.  Extra support for the students in either class is given as needed.  Our veteran teachers have invaluable experience that the RTI process seems to complement.  Their expertise is utilized through the decision making process that is necessary for an effective program to succeed.

Our most experienced teachers are the cornerstone for success.  Their "gut feelings" about students are often validated through data. Using their experience and research, we frequently find solutions to difficult student issues.  Ownership of this process helps to establish an effective RTI.