Which statement best describes the sequence in the screening process?

• A. Step One is the initial assessment mandated by federal law and Step Five concerns undiagnosed cases later
• B. Step One must occur after Step Two
• C. Step Three is typically followed by referrals for a formal evaluation
• D. Step Four is the final step

Answer: (C)

In screening workflows, information is gathered and used to flag potential concerns, then those concerns trigger a more in-depth look. The best description is that the stage where teams typically move to a referral for a formal evaluation, based on accumulated observations, progress data, and stakeholder input, is the point at which a comprehensive assessment is initiated. This reflects the natural progression from initial screening and data collection to deciding that a formal evaluation is warranted to determine eligibility for services.

The other statements don’t fit the usual flow. The initial step isn’t universally defined as a federally mandated initial assessment in every district, and describing a final step that ends the process after screening isn’t accurate—after referral and evaluation, the team proceeds with eligibility determination and planning services.