This collaboration reflects our commitment to recognizing every student as a unique individual. Moreover, it allows our teachers and Student Support Services team to build on existing practices and explore new ways to help every learner succeed.

What Is MTSS and Why Does It Matter?

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is an educational framework that helps schools respond to different student needs.

First, MTSS provides universal strategies that benefit all learners. When students need additional assistance, educators can introduce targeted support based on their individual needs.

As a result, teachers can respond more effectively to learning differences while creating an inclusive and supportive school environment.

At Colegio Bolívar, this approach reinforces an important belief: every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

MTSS at Colegio Bolívar: Recognizing Individual Learning Needs

Every child learns differently. Therefore, understanding individual strengths and challenges is an essential part of meaningful education.

For example, some students benefit from movement breaks, sensory tools, or fidget objects that help them stay focused and regulated during classroom activities.

Rather than viewing these differences as obstacles, our teachers are learning to recognize them as part of the natural diversity of learning.

In addition, the MTSS approach encourages educators to consider students’ academic, emotional, social, and sensory needs.

By supporting the whole child, Colegio Bolívar continues to create learning experiences that respond to individual needs.

Professional Development That Strengthens Student Support

A key component of this partnership is ongoing professional development for our teachers and Student Support Services team.

Throughout the school year, Shelley Hawkes will visit Colegio Bolívar four times. During these visits, she will lead training sessions and collaborative meetings focused on improving student support practices.

Teachers are exploring topics such as sensory regulation, learning differences, classroom accommodations, and academic modifications.

Furthermore, Middle School and High School educators will examine student behavior and peer relationships. These conversations will help them distinguish between everyday conflict, rude or hurtful behavior, and bullying.

Through this training, our educators continue developing practical strategies to create positive and supportive learning environments.

Building Stronger Student Support Systems

The implementation of MTSS at Colegio Bolívar also involves close collaboration with our Student Support Services team.

Together, the team and Shelley Hawkes are reviewing student referral processes, accommodation plans, and modification plans.

Additionally, they are exploring how these practices align with the school’s educational context and Colombian regulations.

The partnership includes both on-campus meetings and virtual sessions. Consequently, professional learning and planning can continue throughout the school year.

This ongoing collaboration helps our school identify priorities, strengthen existing processes, and respond more effectively to student needs.

A School Community Where Every Student Can Thrive

At Colegio Bolívar, we believe that every student brings unique strengths, abilities, and ways of learning to our community.

For this reason, our partnership with Shelley Hawkes is an opportunity to continue improving the educational experiences we provide.

By combining professional development, collaborative planning, and inclusive practices, we are strengthening our commitment to student success and well-being.

Together, we continue building a school community where differences are celebrated, individual needs are understood, and every learner has the opportunity to thrive.