• Fidelity Integrity Assessment (FIA)

    What is the FIA?

    The FIA is a self-assessment tool used by Instructional Leadership Teams (ILTs) to examine the current implementation status of different research-based, schoolwide equity-based inclusive practices. School-based teams administer the FIA through engaging in structured discourse and examining related evidence specific to each of FIA's 22 items. By periodically assessing implementation levels throughout the school year - and across multiple years - ILTs are able to monitor their schools' development of systemic capacity.

    Why engage in the FIA?

    Schools are striving harder than ever to meet the needs of BIPOC students, students with IEPs and those learning English. This requires consistent reflection on current practice in order to ensure the continuation of strong practices and enhancements in areas of opportunity. The items on the FIA are taken from the more comprehensive FIT assessment. Research shows that if the items on the FIT are implemented with fidelity, then all students will experience an inclusive, equity-based educational experience. Taking time to check in on progress toward goals and making modifications when needed ensure that the team's efforts are positively impacting students' experiences and outcomes. 

    Who completes the FIA?

    The school’s Instructional Leadership Team engages in the FIA together. The FIA is used to discuss the school’s performance and progress toward MTSS implementation as well as plan next steps as needed. 

    When should FIA be completed?

    The ILT completes the FIA at least annually to discuss progress, barriers to progress and enhancements to be implemented. The SWiFT Center recommends this take place three times a year. If the FIA will be reflected on once per year, the reflection should be a few months apart from the FIT. FIA results should be used on a regular basis to monitor implementation.

    How is the FIA completed?

    The ILT reviews each descriptive statement on the FIA and examines its current status (e.g., We are: Laying the Foundation, Installing, Implementing, or Sustaining and Scaling Up). Team members should schedule 60-90 minutes for the first administration and at least 30-45 minutes for subsequent progress monitoring. With subsequent administrations, the team will be able to become more efficient and focus on changes that have resulted from implementation efforts. This process is similar in nature to the CR-TFI.

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