What is a Universal Screener? 

“Universal screening is the systematic assessment of all children within a given class, grade, school building, or school district, on academic and/or social-emotional indicators that the school personnel and community have agreed are important.

 In the context of an RTI prevention model, universal screening is the first step in identifying the students who are at risk for learning difficulties. It is the mechanism for targeting students who struggle to learn when provided a scientific, evidence-based general education (Jenkins, Hudson, & Johnson, 2007). Universal screening is typically conducted three times per school year, in the fall, winter, and spring.” 

What is Renaissance STAR?

STAR Renaissance is computer-adaptive technology used for screening and progress-monitoring students. The program measures specific skills as well as overall early literacy, reading, and math ability. They compare students' achievement to that of students across the nation, estimate mastery of Common Core Standards, and report growth over time. STAR Reading and Math also estimate proficiency on state tests. 

For whom are STAR Renaissance assessments designed? 

STAR Early Literacy is designed for students in the early stages of literacy development. STAR Reading & Math are designed for students with at least 100 sight word vocabulary. 

Can teachers prepare students for the Universal Screener? 

No, a universal screener is a tool used to capture a student's current academic level. As we administer the universal screener, we should see growth in a student's academic levels, but there is no "preparation" that should take place. 

Will teachers be evaluated through the results of the Universal screening assessments? 

No, this is a tool to measure student growth and capacity. 

Are the questions read to the students? 

The Early Literacy assessment is read aloud to students. Audio can be turned on for Reading and Math Assessments through the teacher's individual access portal. 

Do these assessments matter?  

These assessments play an important role in determining academic growth. Teachers should emphasize that it's a test that should be taken seriously and encourage students to do their best.