Assessing SEL Competencies
As part of our commitment to social and emotional learning, Stamford is participating in a State-wide Social Emotional Learning Assessment initiative in partnership with Aperture Education. As part of this initiative, teachers use a social-emotional screening and assessment tool called the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA-mini). For students in grades K-8, the DESSA-mini asks teachers to rate how often a student has demonstrated specific SEL skills in the past month. Students in grades 9-12 will take the DESSA Student Self Report to be able to assess their own skills. These assessments are completed three times a year, similar to what we do in reading and math, during the months of October, January, and May. Information from the assessment is used to support school and classroom SEL programming.
SAMPLE DESSA-MINI QUESTIONS INCLUDE:
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How often did the child keep trying when unsuccessful?
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How often did the child offer to help somebody?
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How often did the child get things done in a timely fashion?
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How often did the child work well in groups?
SAMPLE DESSA-SSR QUESTIONS INCLUDE:
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How often did you serve an important role at home or school?
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How often did you take an active role in your learning?
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How often did you trust that your hard work will pay off?
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How often did you share credit when appropriate?
It is important for parents or guardians to know:
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The DESSA-mini does not assess or diagnose students’ mental health
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You have the right to opt-out your child. Students in grades nine through twelve may also opt-out on the day the survey is given. Opt-out information will be sent to families through Google by each school.
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Access to the results of the DESSA will be limited to those who directly serve the student (e.g. classroom teacher, school counselor, nurse, psychologist, or social worker, principal)
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If you have any questions or concerns about the DESSA, please contact your child’s school principal.