Welcome, Mr. Tyler Weaver, our new MTSS Specialist, to Laurel Ridge Elementary School!
Wait, what does MTSS stand for?
Multi-Tier Systems of Support (MTSS)
MTSS is a research-based, system-wide set of practices to support a rapid response to academic & behavioral needs.
This includes frequent data-based monitoring for instructional decision-making to empower each student to achieve.
MTSS provides a more complete solution. It not only implements an intervention process (RTI) but addresses behavior issues, provides for educators, and recognizes the need to incorporate outside influences.
All Dekalb County schools have an MTSS Specialist. We are one of the few districts that recognize the need for this role in every school and are very fortunate to have a dedicated role for MTSS support and a program to fund this role.
Learn more about Mr. Weaver and his role as an MTSS Specialist at Laurel Ridge below.
Welcome to Laurel Ridge! How long have you been working for Dekalb County Schools?
This is my 9th year in DCSD! This is the only district in which I've ever worked!
What do you want parents and caregivers to know about your role?
My role as MTSS Specialist is to help identify gaps in students’ educational experiences, whether that’s in academics or emotionally, and work with teachers to put interventions in place to bridge those gaps. My goal is for every child to receive equitable educational experiences that allow them to have every tool necessary to be successful beyond the walls of LRES. What about students? I want students to know that I am there to help them. While I primarily work with teachers, my responsibility is to ensure students have what they need—whether it’s extra math support, a snack when they’re hungry, or a friend to talk to in a safe space.
What does your day-to-day look like at Laurel Ridge?      
You can see me start most days with a cup of tea at my desk listening to NPR news. I hold lots of meetings and help out pretty much wherever I’m needed, whether distributing materials, providing resources, changing the koi pond filters, or updating the marquee! After lunch duty with my 4th and 5th grade friends, I take care of some more tasks and then run car lane during dismissal!
What do you love most about working at a school?
My favorite part of working in a school is that no two days are EVER the same! Each day brings new experiences, new challenges, new learning opportunities, and helps me remain a lifelong learner.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I spend a lot of time working in my yard and my home. I love to make things pretty! Gardening and interior design are huge parts of my life. I also do a lot of shopping, always trying to find a great bargain. To wind down, I like to be lazy and watch old sitcoms or read a mystery novel under the covers in bed!
What is your favorite kid-friendly joke?
What did the Dentist of the Year receive as his award? A little plaque! 🤣
What were your favorite subjects when you were a student?
I have always been a lover of history, particularly U.S. history from colonialism to the Civil Rights Movement and also English, particularly creative writing. I’m working on my own novel I hope to one day publish.
Is there anything else you want to share?
My door is always open to parents and students with questions, concerns, or just to say hello! Come have a cup of tea in my office and introduce yourself! One of my favorite things about LRES is that we are a small school where you truly can get to know everyone and make meaningful connections.