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

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 (α = .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.