Tier 2 instruction is supplemental, strategic instruction that is provided to students performing below grade level standards (i.e., students at-risk) and for which Tier 1 instruction has been shown to be ineffective in addressing their needs. Tier 2 instruction is provided to prevent students from falling further behind grade level standards, hence, its purpose is to remediate skill deficits and to help students master grade level standards. In an MTSS framework, approximately 15%-20% of students may require this level of instruction to support their school success because their needs are beyond the resources that Tier 1 can effectively and adequately address.  Strategic support is provided in addition to core instruction.

Interventions provided within Tier 2 are systematic and explicit instruction provided to accelerate growth in an area of identified need. Interventions are provided by both special and general educators, and are based on training, not titles. They are designed to improve performance relative to a specific, measurable goal. Interventions are based on valid information about current performance, realistic implementation, and include ongoing student progress monitoring.