Tier 2 · Targeted

Check-in / check-out (CICO)

A student checks in with a mentor each morning, gets feedback on a point sheet throughout the day, and checks out each afternoon.

Setup: 2–3 hours to set up Who: Mentor, teachers, family

How to do it

Choose a CICO mentor, ideally someone the student likes who isn’t their classroom teacher.
Set up a point sheet with the school-wide expectations and the student’s periods or subjects.
Explain the programme to the family (parent letter) and to the student. Practise the routine.
Morning: the student checks in, gets a fresh sheet, reviews goals, and gets encouragement.
During the day: teachers rate each expectation at the end of each period, with a short positive comment.
Afternoon: the student checks out with the mentor, totals the points, and earns a reward if they meet the goal.
The sheet goes home to be signed and returns the next morning.
Graph daily percentages and review data every 2 weeks. Fade support once the goal is met consistently.

Why it works

Adds daily structure, feedback, and adult connection
One of the most studied Tier 2 behaviour supports
Links school and home every day

When to use it

Behaviour hasn’t improved after 4–6 weeks of consistent Tier 1 support
Problem behaviour happens across settings but isn’t dangerous
Often works best when adult attention is motivating

Tips and pitfalls

Start with a daily goal the student can reach (often around 80%).
Teacher feedback should be quick, specific, and mostly positive.
Never use a missed check-in or a bad day to punish at home or school. Just start fresh the next day.

Templates for this strategy

CICO daily point sheet

The daily card for check-in / check-out. Edit the expectations and periods to match your school.

CICO daily point sheet.docx

CICO family letter

An editable letter introducing check-in / check-out to families, with a consent section.

CICO family letter.docx

Reward menu

Build a menu of rewards with the student, including free social and activity rewards, with point costs.

Reward menu.docx

Intervention plan and progress log

A general plan for any Tier 1 or Tier 2 intervention: target behaviour, goal, steps, roles, and a progress log.

Intervention plan and progress log.docx

Helps with

Defiance & refusal Disruption & calling out Off-task Low work completion Low motivation Missing assignments Disrespect & inappropriate language Hyperactivity & out of seat

Not working after a fair trial?

Check that it’s been used consistently for 4–6 weeks and that your data shows the pattern. If so, look at the next tier of support for this behaviour.

Tier 3 · Intensive