Sevastopol School District's Pupil Services Department is preparing for its first developmental screening process since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March. There are typically two sessions, including one in the spring, but April's was canceled following the district's closure.
Director Melissa Marggraf says that virtual screenings are actually the alternative option. The idea is to have children recorded from a phone while they remain unaware of the evaluation. The primary method involves having forms filled out by district parents.
Marggraf says the district should be able to tell fairly quickly if the questionnaire method is delivering accurate results. She says that typically, out of a group of 15-20 students, around three will be flagged for additional screening. The issues can range from behavioral to speech-related. Marggraf says that each class is unique, but overall results tend to be steady from year to year.
Developmental screenings are recommended before a child enters 4-K but are not required. All kids in the district are eligible for the service, even if they are not going to attend Sevastopol Public Schools.
