Based on extensive research and years of experience with using data in the classroom, Renaissance Learning recommends the following Best Practices, which closely align with the research on essential elements of RTI.

1. Evidence-based instruction for all students in all tiers



2. Differentiated instruction at all tiers with personalized goal-setting that allows intervention to be delivered immediately (instead of “waiting to fail”)
   
   
3. Sufficient academic engaged time, increasing with level of intervention
   
   
4. Time for practice of key skills, personalized and with feedback to student and teacher
   
   
5. Frequent, psychometrically-sound assessment at three levels: screening, progress monitoring, and diagnostic
   
   
6. Real-time use of data to make decisions for instruction and interventions (data-driven decision making)
   
   
7. Best use of technology: using computers for efficient assessment, data access, and documentation, with usage and data integrated across all tiers
   
   
8. Parental and community involvement
   
   
9. Professional development