Psychologists, diagnosticians, and educators are often required to assess a child's functioning to assist in placing the child in the most appropriate educational setting. To assess the child's current level of functioning, various behavior rating scales have been designed to integrate both teacher and parent observations in this assessment process. This paper discusses two methods of assessing behavior, the Burks' Behavior Rating Scale (BBRS) and the Devereux Elementary School Behavior Rating Scale (DESB). The BBRS sample consisted of 494 primary-school and 69 middle-school aged children, approximately 70% of whom were Mexican Americans. The DESB sample consisted of 809 elementary school students and 32 teachers. Test administration procedures are discussed along with the intended use of these tests for practitioners who are involved in the evaluation process. These assessments would be appropriate if a child has been transferred for behavior problems, and an initial screening is desired for evaluation of educational placement. The DESB is more effective in identifying students with severe rather than mild behavior problems. The BBRS, which is based on the assumption that behavior problems may be a sign of pathology, can be used to predict who will do well in special education. (Contains 12 references.) (Author/SLD)