The Fourth Tier: Modernizing MTSS
to Support Student Mental Health
A Groundbreaking Guide for Leaders
A groundbreaking guide for educators and leaders to expand integrate mental health support within Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Authors Armand Pires and Ryan Sherman present a vital framework for addressing the growing mental health needs of students.
This book offers practical strategies, actionable insights, and real-world examples to effectively integrate mental health interventions into the MTSS model, creating a truly holistic system that prioritizes student well-being.
Pre-order Your Copy Today!Media & Publications
Featured Videos & Podcasts
Understanding MTSS & Mental Health
A short introduction to the core concepts discussed in the book.
A Case for Tier 4
A compelling argument for modernizing MTSS with the essential Tier 4 framework.
The CharacterStrong Podcast
Listen to the authors discuss the foundations of the Tier 4 framework on this featured podcast.
Publications & Articles
Article: “Student Mental Health: From Support to Treatment”
An article published in the January 2024 edition of AASA’s School Administrator Magazine, providing guidance on student mental health within an educational context.
Read Article →Consulting Services
Transform your school or district’s MTSS mental health support systems with expert guidance.
Strategic Planning
Develop a tailored roadmap for integrating mental health into your existing MTSS framework, aligning with your school’s unique needs and goals.
Professional Development
Engage your staff with workshops and training sessions on evidence-based mental health practices, screening, and intervention strategies.
Implementation Support
Receive ongoing guidance and support through the implementation process, ensuring successful adoption and sustained impact.
Meet the Authors
Armand Pires, Ph.D.
Educational Leader & Superintendent
Armand has served as a superintendent of schools in Massachusetts since 2015, bringing over two decades of diverse experience in education to his leadership.
Armand holds a Bachelor of Science degree, a Master of Public Health, and a Ph.D., and his research interests focus on leadership development, student mental health, and professional growth for educators. These passions align with his dedication to fostering supportive and effective learning environments.
Armand’s work reflects his belief in the transformative power of education and the critical importance of addressing the mental health needs of students.
Armand was also recognized as the 2025 Massachusetts Superintendent of the Year.
Ryan Sherman, DBH.
Educational Leader & Mental Health Advocate
Ryan Sherman has been the Director of Wellness for Medway Schools since 2016.
Over this time, he focused on bridging the gap between schools and the outpatient mental
health care system. Before arriving in Medway, Ryan worked as a behavioral health provider at
Massachusetts General Hospital. Ryan is the primary author of several peer-reviewed
behavioral health research studies and a senior professor of social and emotional learning at
Cambridge College.
Ryan’s was also the recipient of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Wellness Coordinator of the Year and the Massachusetts General Hospital Innovation awards.
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