Curriculum & Assessment

Inclusive curriculum and assessment elevate historically marginalized voices. They create opportunities to learn about power and privilege across communities and empower learners to be agents of positive social change. Inclusive approaches broaden perspectives, work to dismantle bias and inequity, and decenter dominant ideologies in education.

MTSS is fundamentally a framework designed to support inclusive curriculum and assessment practices that meet the needs of all learners. Within a tiered continuum of supports, educators use a variety of curriculum and assessment strategies to ensure all students—including those who require additional or different supports—can access and demonstrate learning.

Because MTSS is a framework rather than a prescribed program, schools and districts have the flexibility to select inclusive curriculum and assessment approaches that reflect their students' needs. Inclusive practices ensure students see themselves reflected in how they learn and how they demonstrate understanding.

How does a culturally responsive-sustaining MTSS framework support inclusive curriculum and assessment?

• Districts review and adopt curricula that reflect the diversity and culture of their students, incorporating educator and student input. This allows instructional content to connect with students’ lived experiences and cultural assets.
• Educators use culturally responsive assessment practices and multiple measures of learning. Assessment data are reviewed regularly to guide instructional decisions and ensure equitable outcomes for all students, including specific subgroups.
• Social-emotional learning resources are embedded within instruction. Practices such as restorative circles support conversations about equity, inclusion, and community.

Resources

• Colorín Colorado – Teaching English Language Learners
• GLSEN – Inclusive Curriculum Guide
• High-Leverage Practices in Special Education
• National Center on Intensive Intervention – Identifying Assessments
• Region X Equity Assistance Center – Culturally Responsive Teaching
• RIDE – High-Quality Curriculum Materials Review Tools
• SAMHSA – Behavioral Health Equity
• U.S. Department of Education – Inclusive Environment Tools
• What Works Clearinghouse

¹ New York State Education Department. Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework. Available at http://www.nysed.gov/crs/framework .