Educators, schools and districts can be a part of making the gold standard of social-emotional competencies assessments available for grades 9-12

Charlotte, N.C. – August 10, 2015 – Research has scientifically confirmed that social and emotional learning (SEL) programs have a positive impact on student achievement, and the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA) is widely recognized as the “gold standard” for measuring the social-emotional competencies of children in kindergarten through 8th grade. Now, Apperson is looking for high schools to participate in the National Standardization of the DESSA – High School Edition (DESSA – HSE).

To participate in the National Standardization, Apperson is asking schools and out-of-school time programs from across the country to complete 32 teacher/staff ratings and 32 student self-report ratings. Parent ratings are optional. For their participation, organizations will receive $5 per rating and a free one-year subscription to the DESSA – HSE online assessment system. As an added incentive for participation, Apperson will enter every organization that completes the required ratings into a drawing for cash rewards.

“Students who are lacking social and emotional skills tend to be those who run into issues in high school which can ultimately lead to dropping out,” said Bill Apperson, chairman of the board of Apperson. “By norming the DESSA for high school, we are helping schools measure such skills as self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills and personal responsibility. By understanding where their students are socially and emotionally, high schools can provide interventions to help students be successful, go on to higher learning and become confident adults.”

National Standardization ratings from across the country will allow Devereux to assign percentiles to the test based on this sample. The DESSA – HSE includes two rating forms, an adult report and a student self-report. National Standardization ratings will consist of approximately 70 strength based items, as well as demographic information to ensure reliability and validity.

To register your school to participate in the National Standardization of the DESSA – HSE, click here.