Comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered models of prevention: Why does my school—and district—need an integrated approach to meet students’ academic, behavioral, and social needs?

In this introductory article, the authors provide an overview of and rationale for comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered models of prevention—one approach to integrated tiered systems of support. The authors (a) describe core features of comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered models; and (b) discuss associated benefits, emphasizing those for students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders. The authors conclude by providing a brief overview of the articles in this special issue, which collectively offer a step-by-step process for designing, implementing, evaluating, and sustaining comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered models in schools and school districts.