You’ve put in the work. Your rules and expectations are clear, your routines and procedures are consistent, and your classwide reinforcement system is running smoothly. You’re using positive reinforcement, consistent corrective responses to problem behaviors, and proactive strategies to create a structured and supportive environment.

But even with all that in place, there are still a few students who just aren’t responding. You’re redirecting the same behaviors over and over. They’re still avoiding work, calling out, getting up at the wrong times, or disrupting lessons. No matter how much structure and reinforcement you provide, something still isn’t clicking for them.

So what do you do when your solid classroom management plan isn’t cutting it? That’s where Tier 2 interventions come in.

Recognizing When It’s Time for More Support

Tier 1 strategies (your classroom management plan) work for most students—but some need extra support. Here’s how you know it’s time to level up your approach:

• You’re constantly redirecting the same students.
• They’re struggling despite clear rules, routines, and reinforcement.
• Their behavior is impacting their learning (or their classmates’).
• You’ve already tried tweaks like seating changes, proximity, and incentives, but behavior isn’t improving.

If this sounds familiar, your student may need Tier 2 interventions—structured, research-backed strategies designed to provide targeted behavior support.

What Are Tier 2 Behavior Strategies?

Tier 2 interventions go beyond general classroom management and focus on students who need extra support to succeed. They’re more individualized, more structured, and proactive rather than reactive.

Some of the most effective Tier 2 strategies include:

• Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) – A daily check-in system to build positive relationships and track progress.
• Behavior-Specific Praise – Intentional, targeted feedback to reinforce expected behaviors.
• Self-Monitoring – Teaching students to track their own behavior and reflect on their choices. Use the Flip Your Lid resource for self-regulation and self-monitoirng with the reflection sheets included. 
• Class Pass Intervention – A structured way to give breaks without reinforcing escape behaviors.
• Structured Breaks – Pre-planned movement or sensory breaks to help students self-regulate. The I Need a Break Kit, is a great resource. It provides students with structured break times (1 to 10 minutes) and strategies that can be completed within those specific time frames.

Try These Strategies Today

If you’re ready to try something right now, here are a few simple Tier 2 strategies you can implement today:

2×10 Relationship Building – Spend two minutes a day for ten days having a non-academic conversation with a struggling student. This small investment builds connection and trust, which can reduce problem behaviors.

Pre-Correcting – Before an activity where a student usually struggles, give them a quick reminder of expectations and a positive affirmation. Example: “Remember, when we walk to lunch, we keep our voices off. I know you can do it!”

Break Cards – Give students a simple, structured way to ask for a break before frustration leads to a meltdown. Teaching them how and when to use a break card can prevent disruptive behaviors before they escalate.

Silent Signal System – If a student struggles with blurting or interruptions, create a non-verbal cue (like a simple hand signal) so they know when to pause and check their behavior. This keeps redirection subtle and non-disruptive.

These are quick, low-prep strategies that can make a big difference in how students respond to your interventions.

Not Sure Where to Start? I’ve Got You!

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, my Quick Guide to Tier 2 Behavior Interventions has even more strategies to help you support students effectively. This guide is designed for busy teachers who need clear, easy-to-implement strategies that actually work.

Inside the guide, you’ll find:
A breakdown of 12 Tier 2 strategies

Implementation Guides and Printable Tools

Ready-to-use interventions that fit seamlessly into your day

Practical tips to reduce disruptive behavior and increase engagement

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. With the right tools, you can support your students without feeling like you’re constantly putting out fires.

Grab your copy of the Quick Guide to Tier 2 Behavior Interventions today

Classroom management is important—but for some students, it’s just not enough. And that’s okay! The key is knowing when to move beyond Tier 1 and into more structured support. With the right Tier 2 interventions, you can help your students thrive without feeling like you’re drowning in behavior challenges.

I know how hard you’re working to support your students, and I want you to know—you’re not alone. Keep going, you’re making a difference every single day!