Strengthen the Core for More

Focus your leadership where it matters most — daily instruction for all students.

“Decades of research confirm that a strong Tier 1 core reduces the number of students needing intervention and raises achievement for all. When the foundation is solid, schools see both equity gaps close and overall performance rise.”

- National Center on Intensive Intervention, 2017; McIntosh & Goodman, 2016, Integrated Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

The Essentials of Effective Core Instruction

  • Implement High-Quality, Evidence-Based Instructional Practices

    Prioritize research-backed practices that are proven to improve learning across content areas. This includes explicit instruction, opportunities for active engagement, checks for understanding, and differentiated supports built into daily lessons.
    (Hattie, 2017; Marzano, 2009)

  • Integrate Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Classroom Climate

    Strong Tier 1 is not only academic. Embedding SEL competencies (self-regulation, collaboration, perseverance) and cultivating a culture of belonging increases engagement and motivation, which directly improves achievement and reduces behavior barriers.
    (CASEL, 2020; Osher et al., 2018)

  • Use Data Routinely to Monitor and Adapt Instruction

    Effective leaders establish systems for reviewing universal screening, progress monitoring, and classroom-level data to ensure instruction is meeting the needs of at least 80% of students. Data-driven routines allow teachers to adjust instruction early, before gaps widen.
    (McIntosh & Goodman, 2016; National Center on MTSS, 2021)

How We Can Help

  • Strengthening Tier 1 instruction starts with the right tools. That’s why we’re making this resource available free of charge to principals, district leaders, and leadership teams.

    Inside, you’ll find practical strategies, ready-to-use templates, and a clear framework for applying MTSS practices that build a strong, equitable core program — ensuring more students succeed with Tier 1 and fewer require intensive intervention.

  • Turn insight into action with this comprehensive resource for school and district leaders. The Essentials of Strong Core Instruction Toolkit + Guide provides ready-to-use templates and strategies, including:

    • Instructional planning tools that align academics, SEL, and equity

    • Classroom routines and practices proven to boost engagement and achievement

    • Universal design strategies to reduce barriers and support diverse learners

    • Data-driven tools for monitoring effectiveness and adapting instruction

    Built for busy leaders, this toolkit makes it simple to move from awareness of Tier 1 challenges to concrete, sustainable practices that strengthen the core and improve outcomes for all students.

  • Strengthening Tier 1 instruction isn’t the responsibility of one leader — it requires a coordinated, schoolwide effort. Team training ensures that principals, teachers, and support staff share a common vision of high-quality core instruction, align their practices, and work from the same playbook.

    When teams learn together, they build collective capacity, strengthen consistency across classrooms, and create equitable systems where every student has access to effective teaching. The result is a stronger core program that lifts achievement for all and reduces the need for intensive interventions.

MTSS Leadership Boot Camp

Join our 4-day Tier 1 Boot Camp to strengthen core instruction, integrate SEL, and build systems that support success for all students.

What Trusted Colleagues Say About Joan

  • “Joan is an incredible leader who understands MTSS from both the academic and behavior side. She also understands the critical role of getting the adult piece right and how to leverage implementation science to create the conditions for successful, sustained implementation. She is always a pure joy to work and interact with."

    Dr. Clay Cook, Implementation Scientist & Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong

  • Portrait of a smiling woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a pink floral blouse, resting her chin on her hand against a white background.

    "Joan is one of the most upbeat, intelligent school leaders with whom I've had the privilege to work. A true values-driven leader, unafraid to make hard decisions, she is also incredibly productive and results-oriented without sacrificing a strong focus on relationships, which has made her a beloved and respected leader. "

    Bridget McNamer, Leadership Coach

  • A woman with long brown hair smiling outdoors, wearing a sleeveless white top with small dark dots and a small gold necklace.

    “Joan's warmth, energy, enthusiasm, and passion is contagious. She is one of those rare leaders who has the technical skill to lead K-12 systems efficiently but also the adaptive leadership to deliver results.”

    Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden, Founder of SpringMath and Educational Researcher

  • Close-up of a smiling man with short brown hair, light skin, and blue eyes, wearing a dark shirt, against a plain white background.

    "At the heart of her mission was always a fundamental duty of care for our students...I miss her, but am grateful for the lasting contributions she has made."

    Paul Swanson, Director of Innovation and Technology

  • A woman with glasses and wavy hair smiling outdoors on a bright day, with a blue sky, scattered clouds, a tree, and a chain-link fence in the background.

    “Joan is a transformational, innovative leader. Her instructional leadership leads to improved student outcomes and her boundless energy is contagious."

    Mele Benz, Technical Assistance Provider & Former Principal

  • Close-up of a woman with long dark hair smiling at the camera, wearing an orange and white patterned top, with blue and white wall background.

    “I am but one of many who have grown in their skillset by working with [Joan]. I am forever grateful for what she has done for the children in our school as well for myself professionally.”

    Ms. Shawna Diamond, Special Education Teacher, Instructional Coach and Administrator

  • Black and white portrait of a smiling man in a suit and tie.

    “Joan has the ability to quickly identify challenges, develop solutions and build teams and systems to get things done. She possesses a high degree of integrity, a notable work ethic, and a great sense of humor.”

    Steven Dexter, School Principal

  • "It has been a pleasure to watch as [Joan] deliberately seeks out vastly different experiences to grow her expertise and view student learning from every angle. She is both knowledgeable and passionate about her work, while caring deeply for her people. I am confident you will thrive under her mentorship."

    Heather Newell, M.Ed. – Lecturer, Teacher Education and Leadership, Utah State University, and former principal