RtI is “the practice of providing 1) high-quality instruction/ intervention matched to student needs and 2) using learning rate over time and level of performance to 3) make important educational decisions” (Batsche, et al., 2005).  This means using differentiated curriculum-based instructional strategies for all learners, providing all learners with scientific, research-based interventions, continuously measuring student performance using scientifically research-based progress monitoring instruments for all learners and making educational decisions based on a student’s response to interventions.

The Illinois State Board of Education has developed this draft RtI plan in a collaborative effort with the Illinois Education Association, Illinois Federation of Teachers, Illinois Association of Administrators of Special Education, Illinois Association of School Administrators, Regional Offices of Education and the Illinois State Advisory Council.  This draft document is evolved from the basic definition of RtI to its present conceptual framework.  The planning team has attempted to address the concerns of all stakeholders within the group and best practices for implementation of this statewide education initiative.

The document is still in its draft form and the collaborative group of stakeholders would like your input on the plan.  We will take into consideration all comments and provide an opportunity for further discussion on Friday, December 21, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  If you are interested in hearing or participating in this discussion, please call 1-800-864-5102—passcode 8308702.

The final plan will be effective January 1, 2008, as outlined in by Illinois Administrative Code 226.130(b) (1).  However, the stakeholder group will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the plan in meeting the needs of districts in implementing RtI statewide.

Written comments will be accepted at rti@isbe.net We ask that written comments be provided by the close of business Wednesday, December 19, 2007.  

Draft State Response to Intervention (RtI) Plan