Exploring and Adopting

Exploring and adopting is a very important stage in the implementation process. Until stakeholders are clear about what is being implemented and why it is being implemented, many may be reluctant to support implementation efforts. Effective leadership sets the context for successful implementation by creating momentum for the implementation of an innovation and supporting the advancement of data driven solutions. For RTI to achieve success in the performance of individual students and in school improvement, it requires the full support of leadership.

Key components of the Exploring and Adopting stage include:

• Convening a team of stakeholders who are empowered to make decisions
• Identifying site needs and desired outcomes
• Gathering information about the essential components of RTI
• Assessing the match between RTI and the site’s needs and desired outcomes
• Educating key stakeholders (may include state- district- and school- level staff, families, and community members) about the essential components of RTI and how RTI can address the needs of the site
• Achieving a consensus among stakeholders to adopt RTI
• Identifying implications of implementing RTI for existing systems and policies
• Establishing a clear vision, mission and measurable goals of RTI implementation
• Developing a culturally and linguistically responsive framework for RTI