|
HMTSS Program Overview
HMTSS (Hawai‘i Multi-Tiered System of Support) is a data-driven, team-based decision-making framework aimed at achieving positive outcomes for every student in Hawaii through a layered continuum of evidence-based practices. The program focuses on four core components:
· Foundational beliefs about equity and the potential of every child
· Data-driven, team-based decision making
· Universal screening and progress monitoring
· A multi-tiered system of evidence-based practices
The framework integrates academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and physical supports, increasing in intensity from Tier 1 (universal for all students) to Tier 3 (individualized and intensive). HMTSS is designed to ensure schools foster a positive culture and climate, systematically identify student needs, and implement interventions early to promote student achievement and well-being across all domains.[1][2][3][4][5]
Program Implementation
HMTSS is embedded in Hawaii's school improvement culture. Schools regularly screen all students for academic and behavioral needs and use progress monitoring to guide interventions. It incorporates supports such as RTI (Response to Intervention) and PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) to address a broad range of learning and behavioral obstacles proactively. The program emphasizes collaboration, leadership, and teaming at all levels for sustainability and the effective use of resources.[2][3][5]
Gordon Miyamoto: Leader of HMTSS
Gordon Miyamoto serves as the Educational Specialist and HMTSS Coordinator at the Hawaii State Department of Education's Office of Student Support Services. He is based in Kaneohe, Hawaii, and plays a major role in overseeing, coordinating, and supporting the implementation of HMTSS statewide. Miyamoto's work centers on advancing systems of academic, behavioral, social, and emotional support to ensure every student can thrive in an equitable and effective educational environment.[5][6][7][8][9]
Miyamoto regularly presents about the HMTSS framework and collaborates with various educational specialists and leaders to further student well-being and holistic success throughout Hawaii’s public schools.[10][5]
Core Principles
· Promote student equity, achievement, and well-being
· Integrate assessment and intervention across academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and physical health domains
· Engage in ongoing, team-based, data-informed decision making at all school levels
https://www.hawaiipublicschools.org/DOE Forms/OSSS-StudentServicesBranch.pdf
| 
