What is Tier 2 PBIS?

Overview

Tier 2 supports help students who need more than universal expectations. These small-group or targeted interventions provide increased structure and frequent feedback. Students are identified using data such as referrals, attendance, or teacher recommendations. Common Tier 2 supports include Check-In/Check-Out (CICO), social skills groups, and behavior contracts. The goal is to help students quickly respond to extra support and return to Tier 1 success.

 

 

How Do You Move to Tier 2?

A student moves to Tier 2 when data shows that Tier 1 supports are not enough.

Common indicators include:

  • Multiple minor behavioral incidents

  • Frequent office referrals (but not severe)

  • Teacher requests for assistance

  • Screening tools (e.g., SRSS, behavior rating scales)

  • Decreases in academic engagement

  • Patterns of missing assignments or attendance concern

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Components & Principles of Tier 2

Tier 2 supports are standardized, efficient, and evidence-based.
Schools typically implement several common interventions that can be matched to student needs.

✔ 1. Increased Structure & Predictability

Students receive consistent routines, expectations, and check-ins.

✔ 2. Rapid Access to Supports

Tier 2 interventions should be:

  • quick to start (within 72 hours)

  • simple to implement

  • available throughout the school year

✔ 3. Small-Group or Targeted Skills Instruction

Examples:

  • social skills training

  • self-management strategies

  • problem-solving skills

✔ 4. Frequent Feedback & Positive Reinforcement

Students receive more immediate and consistent responses to behavior.

✔ 5. Regular Progress Monitoring

Teams track data weekly or biweekly to determine:

  • Is the student improving?

  • Should the intervention continue, fade, or intensify?

✔ 6. Standardized, Not Individualized

Interventions use the same structure for all students in Tier 2 groups.

Common Tier 2 Interventions

📘 Check-In/Check-Out (CICO)

Daily check-ins with an adult mentor, behavior tracking, and home communication.

🤝 Social Skills Groups

Teaching communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation.

⏰ Organizational/Academic Support

Small groups focused on homework routines, planning, or executive functioning.