We are excited to announce the release of the Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI) 3.0 starting April 14. The TFI 3.0 is a significant update providing schools with a valid, reliable, and efficient way to measure their implementation of the core features of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). This latest version builds on existing PBIS fidelity measures and prioritizes mental health supports, equity, and classroom implementation. In addition, the TFI 3.0 has an expanded 5-point scale with indicators, allowing teams to report on their implementation more accurately, with more guidance to support action planning.
The TFI 3.0 has three sections:
- Tier 1: Universal PBIS Features
- Tier 2: Targeted PBIS Features
- Tier 3: Intensive PBIS Features
Teams are free to assess one, two, or all three sections to help them answer the question: Are we doing what we said we would do?
Why Should Teams Use the TFI 3.0?
The TFI 3.0 can be used for:
- Initial assessment of overall PBIS implementation across all three tiers
- Action planning and continuous improvement of Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 features
- Progress monitoring your implementation over time
Who Should Complete the TFI 3.0?
The TFI is typically completed by a school’s Leadership Team or Systems Planning Team (3–8 individuals, including a building administrator and external coach or district coordinator), often with input from Tier 1, 2, and/or 3 teams. Research shows school teams are more accurate in their survey responses when they complete the TFI with an external facilitator. For that reason, we strongly recommend recruiting your PBIS coach to sit with you as you complete the TFI.
Which Tiers Should You Measure?
For the first administration of TFI 3.0, we recommend examining all three tiers. If the resulting action plan focuses on one or two tiers, progress monitor just those tiers through the year. End-of-year administration should include scoring for all three tiers.
Where Can You Take the TFI 3.0?
Complete the TFI using our web app PBIS Assessment. Schools working with a PBIS coordinator have access to the web app and reports are available immediately upon completion of the TFI for action planning. Information on how to access PBIS Assessment for free is available on the PBIS Assessment webpage. You can also download a copy of the TFI 3.0.
When Should Teams Make the Move to the TFI 3.0?
The TFI 3.0 replaces the TFI 2.1, incorporating updates better aligned with current PBIS practices and priorities. The TFI 2.1 will remain available for at least the next year to ensure a smooth transition. We encourage schools to adopt the TFI 3.0 when it makes sense for them to do so, typically in the Fall, to benefit from its enhanced features and improved guidance.
How Can I Compare Scores Between the TFI 3.0 and 2.1?
The TFI 3.0 includes nine more items and an expanded 5-point scoring rubric. As a result, the total available points increased from 90 on the TFI 2.1 to 216 on the TFI 3.0. Because of this change, teams may wish to use points instead of percentages to interpret scores (both types of data will be available in online reports). To see how items in the new survey compare, check out the Item Crosswalk and to see how old and new scores compare see the Conversion Tables and Formulas.
Visit the TFI page for even more guidance and resources to support your assessment with the TFI 3.0. We are excited about the enhancements in TFI 3.0 and look forward to supporting schools in their PBIS implementation journey. Thank you for your continued dedication to creating positive, inclusive school environments.