Universal Screening Reduces Problem Behaviors

Post date: Oct 25, 2012 6:35:49 PM

Universal Screening for behavior is an evidence-based practice for efficiently identifying students at risk of developing problem behaviors that may impede academic progress.  In 2007, as part of a national demonstration process, the Illinois PBIS Network began supporting schools to conduct Universal Screening within a Tier 2/Tier 3 model of support.  The Network directly supported over 60 schools in 10 districts with the process of screening, intervening, and progress-monitoring student response to intervention.  Student outcome data from a sample of schools from two of the participating districts, SD U-46 and CUSD 300, is shared below.  In these seven demonstration schools, approximately 13% of the total student population accessed a Tier 2 intervention as a result of Universal Screening.  These schools experienced a reduction of students with 2-5 office discipline referrals (ODRs) from 311 in 2009-10 to 258 in 2011-12. 

Students with 2-5 ODRs (N=7 Schools)

The Illinois PBIS Network now offers schools information on how to conduct a Universal Screening process that consists of three elements: 1) a multi-step teacher nomination process, 2) tools for identifying students with acting out and withdrawn behaviors, and 3) expedited Tier 2 interventions for students who meet screening criteria.  See www.pbisillinois.org/curriculum/universalscreening for more information.