Continuum of Services for Advanced Learning

The Continuum of Services for Advanced Learning provides district and school leaders guidance on how to utilize the multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) framework and talent development principles to serve all students, including students with advanced learning needs.

Advanced Learning Pilot Program

The Center for Strategic Initiatives is working with eight school districts who are participating in a five-year Advanced Learning Pilot program. This program is focusing on utilizing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to extend, accelerate, and differentiate content for students with advanced learning needs. Through the program, DESE staff will provide support through ongoing check-ins, professional development, and observations to assist with implementation of strategies and best practices.

Goals of this program include:

Equitable opportunities and access to advanced learning services for all students
Exemplar classrooms to expand the implementation of the continuum of services

Questions can be directed to Leah Murphy , Manager of Advanced and Accelerated Programs.

Continuum of Services Guidance Document

The Department, with support from Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development, has developed the Continuum of Services for Advanced Learning document which provides district and school leaders guidance on how to utilize the multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework and talent development principles to serve all students, including students with advanced learning needs. The Continuum of Services document is a working document that will be updated periodically to highlight best practices for serving the needs of advanced learners and to highlight what districts in Massachusetts are already doing to serve advanced learners.

Last Updated: November 19, 2025