What role do teachers play in the CST process?

Teachers play a crucial role in the Child Study Team (CST) process by providing valuable insights on student performance and actively collaborating on assessments and interventions. Their firsthand experience in the classroom allows them to observe and document a student's academic and social behaviors, which is essential for identifying learning challenges and developing appropriate strategies to support the student.

The collaboration aspect is particularly important, as it ensures that interventions are evidence-based and tailored to meet the specific needs of the student. Teachers can contribute information about various instructional strategies that may have been attempted, student engagement levels, and progress monitoring data, all of which are critical for effectively addressing a student's unique needs.

Through their contributions, teachers not only aid in the identification of students who may require special education services but also support ongoing communication among all team members, ensuring that the interventions are implemented with fidelity and adjusted as necessary based on the effectiveness observed in the classroom setting. This collaborative approach enhances the overall support provided to the student, fostering a more holistic understanding of their needs.