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If You’re Waiting for Office Referrals, You’re Waiting Too Long

If You’re Waiting for Office Referrals, You’re Waiting Too Long

Schoolin' Around
32 min
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<p>This episode explores the shift from reactive referral-based behavior support to proactive, universal screening methods in schools. Experts discuss the limitations of referral systems, the benefits of universal screening tools like the SSRS-IE, and practical strategies for implementation and staff training.</p> <p>Featuring Branching Minds Team members, Ashley Pennell, Rachel Butler, and Christina Solinger.</p> <p><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p><a href="https://schoolin-around.captivate.fm/guide-for-universal-screening-for-sel-behavior-" rel="nofollow">Guide for Universal Screening for SEL &amp; Behavior </a></p> <p>Article: <a href="https://www.branchingminds.com/blog/document-behavior-in-the-classroom" rel="nofollow">Changing the Way (and the Reason) You Document Behavior</a></p> <p>Webinar: <a href="https://www.branchingminds.com/moving-from-referral-to-screening-based-tiering-for-behavior-support" rel="nofollow">Moving from Referral to Screening-Based Tiering for Behavior Support</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.branchingminds.com/hubfs/Webinars/2026_Webinars/WEB_26_Moving_from_Referral_to_Screening-Based_Tiering_for_Behavior_Support_03.17.26/Evidence-Summary-Why-Universal-Behavioral-SEL-Screening-Matters.pdf" rel="nofollow">Why Universal Behavioral/SEL Screening Matters</a></p> <p>Learn more about Branching Minds: <a href="https://schoolin-around.captivate.fm/brm-consultation" rel="nofollow">Request a consultation</a></p> <p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Universal behavior screening shifts the paradigm from reactive to proactive support</li> <li>Data integration across academic and behavioral domains unlocks holistic student support</li> <li>Teacher biases and subjectivity distort student identification without standardized tools</li> <li>Capacity and cultural considerations are central to successful screening adoption</li> <li>Fear of data leading to intervention is valid but manageable through clear planning</li> </ul> <br> <p>Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our <a href="https://schoolin-around.captivate.fm/branchingminds" rel="nofollow">Branching Minds Website</a>, or sign up for our weekly <a href="https://schoolin-around.captivate.fm/newsletter" rel="nofollow">Newsletter</a> on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.&nbsp; </p> <p>Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com! </p>