Reading Difficulties Risk Screener (RDRS) – Multitudes

The Multitudes Universal Reading Screener is administered to kindergarten, first grade, and second grade students in accordance with California Education Code Section 53008. Fremont Unified School District uses this California State Board of Education–approved screening instrument to support the early identification of students’ reading strengths and potential risk for reading difficulties.

The purpose of this screening is to ensure that students who may benefit from additional literacy support are identified as early as possible. Early literacy skills form the foundation for future academic success. Research consistently demonstrates that when reading challenges are identified in the primary grades, timely instructional support can significantly improve outcomes. The Multitudes Universal Screener is one tool used by FUSD to support early literacy development and to inform instructional planning in grades K–2.

The screener evaluates foundational literacy skills that are strong predictors of later reading achievement. The specific tasks administered vary slightly by grade level, as outlined below:

It is important to understand that Multitudes is not a diagnosis and is not used for grading purposes. Instead, the screener serves as one source of information that teachers use alongside classroom assessments, student work, and professional observations to support students’ reading development.

Helpful Links

• “What Is Multitudes?” (English, Spanish, Chinese)
• “Understanding Your Child’s Multitudes Results” (English, Spanish, Chinese)