As part of our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, Cleveland City Schools will implement a universal behavior screener that will support behavioral, social and emotional learning (SEL) in grades K-12 beginning in the 2024-2025 school year. The name of the screener the district has chosen to adopt is the Student Risk Screening Scale for Internalizing and Externalizing behaviors (SRSS-IE). This tool is designed to help us better understand and support all our students' behavioral, social and emotional development.
What is a Universal Behavior Screener?
A universal behavior screener is a tool that helps us assess various aspects of your student's behavioral, social and emotional skills. A universal behavior screener provides valuable insights into their strengths and areas where they may benefit from additional support. By understanding your student's behavioral, social and emotional needs, we can tailor our efforts to provide the best support for their well-being. Using a universal behavior screener is a common practice in school systems that utilize a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) approach to both academic and non-academic instruction and intervention. To read more about MTSS in Cleveland City Schools, click this link.
What are the Benefits of Using a Universal Behavior Screener?
We believe supporting your student's behavioral, social, and emotional development is as important as their academic success. By implementing the SRSS-IE, we are taking proactive steps to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive in school and beyond. Information from this tool will assist schools in providing universal behavioral, social, and emotional support for all students. This tool will help us create a more caring and inclusive school community where every student can reach their full potential.
Your Consent Matters
The SRSS-IE will be completed by your student’s teacher and the information will be stored securely in PowerSchool and kept confidential to ensure your student’s privacy. Your active consent is required for us to complete the SRSS-IE with your student. By providing your consent, you enable us to gather vital information that will significantly enhance our ability to support your student’s behavioral, social and emotional growth.
Beginning May 1st, 2024, you will be able to provide your active consent when you complete your student’s online registration for the 2024/25 school year in PowerSchool. If you completed your student’s registration prior to May 1st, then your student’s school will be contacting you to acquire your active consent. For more information on completing your student’s online registration, please visit this website.
We are here to support you and your student every step of the way. Your partnership in supporting your student’s education and well-being is invaluable. Together, we can ensure that every student in our district has the opportunity to thrive.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about the universal screening process or the active consent process, please contact our Well-Being Specialist, Dr. Alicia Kahrs, at akahrs@clevelandschools.org. Copies of the screening tool are available for review upon request.
For more information and resources on social and emotional learning, please visit the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) website.