Understanding SAEBRS and mySAEBRS

The Anchorage School District is committed to supporting the success and well-being of every student. As part of this commitment, we use two brief screening tools—SAEBRS and mySAEBRS—to better understand students’ social, emotional, and behavioral strengths and needs.

These tools are part of our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework and are integrated with our Social-emotional Learning (SEL) efforts. This also aligns with family and community input on increasing the use of student voice and addressing issues such as bullying in schools., Together, they help schools create safe, supportive environments where all students can thrive.

What is SAEBRS?

SAEBRS (Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener) is a short rating completed by teachers. It looks at three important areas that support student success:

• Social behavior (e.g., cooperation with peers)
• Academic behavior (e.g., engagement in learning)
• Emotional behavior (e.g., managing feelings)

Teachers complete the screener based on their observations of students in the classroom, providing a snapshot of how students are doing in school. This tool is used up to 3x a year and  help teachers reflect on needed classroom structures as well as identify students who may need additional support. This screening is completed by teachers and does not take away from instructional time nor require input/answers from students.

What is mySAEBRS?

mySAEBRS is the student self-report version of the screener. It gives students an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences and share how they are feeling.

• Completed on a computer or tablet
• Takes about 5–10 minutes
• Asks students to think about the past month

Student voice is an important part of understanding the whole child, and mySAEBRS helps ensure that students are active participants in that process.

What kinds of questions are on mySAEBRS?

Students respond to simple, age-appropriate statements about their experiences at school. You may view the list of questions here:

• I get along with my peers.
• I am respectful.
• Other people like me.
• I have trouble waiting my turn.
• I like school.

• I am ready for class.
• I get good grades.
• I have trouble working alone.
• It’s hard to pay attention in class.
• I participate in class.
• I disrupt class.

• I feel sad.
• I feel nervous.
• I feel worried.
• I am happy.
• I like to try new things.
• I lose my temper.
• When something bad happens, it takes me a while to feel better.
• I like being alone.

Students indicate how often each statement is true for them (never, sometimes, often, almost always)  There are no “right” or “wrong” answers. Student surveys look like this: 

Why do we use these screeners?

SAEBRS and mySAEBRS help schools:

• Identify strengths and needs early and notice when students may need additional support
• Use data to guide decision making within our behavioral supports framework
• Provide the right level of support at the right time and connect students to resources
• Monitor how our supports are working over time
• Support student growth and reflection in self awareness and self management

These tools are not used for grading, diagnosis, or labeling. They are one part of a broader system used to support students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about mySAEBRS

Is mySAEBRS a test?

No. mySAEBRS is not a test and is not used for grades. It is a brief survey to help schools better understand student experiences.

Is participation required for mySAEBRS?

No. Participation is voluntary.

• Students may skip questions or stop at any time
• Family consent is gained through the registration process and they may opt out at any time by contacting their school

How often is mySAEBRS given?

The survey may be given up to three times per year at participating schools.

How long does it take?

The survey typically takes 5–10 minutes to complete.

How is the information used?

Schools use the information to:

• Identify students who may benefit from additional support
• Improve school-wide systems and instruction
• Use student feedback, together with other data, to guide decisions

Who can see my child’s results?

• Results are confidential and accessible only to appropriate school staff
• Used alongside other information (such as teacher input and academic data)
• Not used alone to make decisions

If additional supports are recommended, results may be shared with parents/guardians.

Can I change my decision after giving permission?

Yes. You may change your decision at any time by contacting your school.

Partnering with Families

We value strong partnerships with families and the community. If you have questions about SAEBRS or mySAEBRS, or how your child’s school uses this information, please contact your school administrator.

Together, we can ensure that every student is supported, connected, and prepared for success.