Psychometric Properties of the Student Risk Screening Scale: An Effective Tool for Use in Diverse Urban Elementary Schools

Abstract

The authors examined the psychometric properties of the Student Risk Screening Scale, as used in three ethnically, culturally, and economically diverse urban midwestern elementary schools. The results suggest strong internal consistency (a = .81-.82) and test-retest stability (r = .86). Initial ratings of risk as measured by the Student Risk Screening Scale were statistically significant in predicting year-end office discipline referral rates and springtime oral reading fluency scores. Students with higher levels of risk at the onset of the academic year were likely to end the year with moderately higher rates of office discipline referrals and low to moderately lower oral reading fluency proficiency levels. Limitations and future directions are offered.

Predictive Validity of Student Risk Screening Scale—Internalizing and Externalizing (SRSS-IE) Scores in Elementary Schools

“…Findings were highly similar to previous short-term (1 year) predictive validity studies indicating fall SRSS-E7 scores predicted year-end behavioral outcomes (e.g., ODRs and self-control skills; Oakes et al, 2010), and academic outcomes, such as ORF (Oakes et al, 2010) and proficiency in language art skills ). Yet this is the first study at the elementary level to explore the extent to which screening scores predicted in-school suspensions and nurse visits.…”

“…Findings offer additional evidence of fall SRSS-E7 scores predicting behavioral and academic year-end outcomes for elementary-age students consistent with early inquiry of the original SRSS tool (e.g., Oakes et al, 2010). Furthermore, we provide initial evidence suggesting fall SRSS-I5 scores also predict important educational outcomes for students.…”

A Comparison Between SRSS-IE and SSiS-PSG Scores

“…ROC curves also suggest chance estimates are improved by approximately 20-30% in these domains. Previous studies at the elementary level have found SRSS scores are inversely related to year-end reading (Oakes et al, 2010) and language arts achievement. At the secondary level, SRSS scores are predictive of course failures and grade point averages (Lane, Bruhn, Eisner, & Kalberg, 2010;Lane, Kalberg, Parks, & Carter, 2008;Lane et al, 2013;Lane, Parks, Kalberg, & Carter, 2007).…”

Commentary: Universal Screening for Social, Emotional and Behavioral Risk in Schools Using Protective Factors

“…Research supports the use of the SRSS-IE as a reliable and valid tool for universal screening at the elementary school level [18,20], middle school level [21], high school level [22], in early childhood settings [23] and for use with English Language Learners [24].…”