What is a key characteristic of effective pre-referral interventions?

• A. Build on students’ strengths and include observations by parents
• B. Focus solely on deficits
• C. Rely only on standardized tests
• D. Delay intervention

Answer: (A)

Effective pre-referral interventions are strengths-based and collaborative, using strategies that build on what the student can do and actively incorporating observations from families and other caregivers. This approach helps tailor supports within the general education setting, making them practical, timely, and more likely to succeed because they reflect the student’s everyday functioning at home and school. Parents’ observations add valuable context about routines, behaviors, triggers, and supports that work across settings, guiding appropriate adjustments and ensuring the interventions are feasible in real life. Decisions are driven by ongoing progress monitoring, so the team can see what helps and what doesn’t and modify strategies accordingly. Focusing only on deficits, relying solely on standardized tests, or delaying intervention misses this holistic, proactive help and can slow the student’s growth and engagement.