Universal Screening

Universal Screening uses a systematic process for identifying students who may be at risk for poor learning outcomes, including academic, behavioral, social, emotional, school completion, and college and career readiness outcomes. Screening data can also be used to identify schools that need support due to large numbers of struggling students. The universal screening process depends on access to and use of data connected to reliable and valid indicators of the desired outcome within the selected grade levels.

To ensure accuracy of the data, educators follow initial screening with additional testing or short-term progress monitoring to confirm students’ risk status. With screening, teams select valid and reliable indicators, monitor and ensure fidelity of implementation, and use data to identify students at-risk and improve Tier 1 implementation and impact. The screening process should reflect cultural and linguistic responsiveness and recognition of student needs and strengths (Center on Multi-Tiered Supports).