Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m a parent and I received a letter stating that my child’s scores fell within the elevated/high range for a specific area. Should I be alarmed?

A: This screening can only be used to indicate potential risk. In addition, the screening (alone) should not be used to determine whether additional support or interventions are needed for your child. Our school teams continue to monitor student behavior and risk and address school behavior through school-wide interventions like PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports). If it becomes necessary for your child to receive more targeted intervention and support (small groups or counseling), a member of Student Support Services (school counselor, school social worker, mental health support staff, etc.) will contact you about options, consent, and next steps.

Q: Now that I’ve been informed of a potential risk, what should I do?

A: There are a variety of resources and approaches available to help parents promote positive mental health and resilience in their children. Consider some of the tips and training available HERE.
If you have not done so already, consider setting aside some time to “check-in” with your child about how things are going on a regular basis.  Listen to what your child says. Use that information – along with what you observe about your child – to consider whether additional support or intervention is needed. 
If your child needs counseling, let the school counselor and/or pediatrician know so that he/she can be referred for services.
If your child is experiencing an emotional crisis, get help immediately. Georgia Crisis & Access Line – (800) 715-4225.

Q: Does my child’s participation in social, emotional, behavioral learning and screening activities mean my child has done something wrong? 

A: No. The intent of the social, emotional, behavioral learning and screening initiative is to develop a comprehensive, coordinated, and integrated program for advancing wellness and resilience in educational settings for school-aged youth.

Q: What if I don’t want my child to participate in the social, emotional, behavioral learning (SEBL) and screening activities?

A: All social, emotional, behavioral learning activities are designed to build wellness and resilience in youth. We want all children to be successful in our school environment. Many of the social, emotional, behavioral learning activities will be integrated into the school day for all students. You will be contacted by the school if your child is recommended for additional supports through any of our school district’s SEBL resources. If contacted about supplemental services, you may speak with your school about opting out of those activities. 

Q: Why do you need to screen all the kids? My kid seems to be doing fine.

A: The purpose of universal screening is to identify ways the school can better meet the needs of all children.  When we analyze the screening data, we will determine additional supports that are needed school-wide, in individual classrooms, and for individual groups of students. The intent of the screening process is to identify how we can increase the success of all kids in the school environment. 

Q: Does my child have to participate in behavior screening at school? 

A: No. Any parent who does not want his/her/their child to participate in screening should return the Behavior Screening Opt-Out form that is sent home with students toward the beginning of each school year.

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