What is the primary focus of evaluations conducted using the SFA?

The primary focus of evaluations conducted using the School Functional Assessment (SFA) is to assess participation in school activities. The SFA is designed to measure a child's ability to participate in various school-related tasks and activities, providing insights into how well a child can function in the school environment. This assessment takes into account not just academic performance, but also a range of factors that influence a child's ability to engage in learning and interact with peers and adults in the school setting.

The SFA looks into different areas, such as self-care, mobility, and social aspects of a child's interaction within the school. By focusing on participation, the SFA helps identify the necessary supports and interventions that can enhance a child's engagement in school activities, ultimately promoting better educational outcomes. This approach emphasizes the importance of participation and functional capabilities over more traditional measures like academic performance or physical fitness, which are typically assessed through other means.