Standards-Based Grades
As you are probably aware, this year we will be converting all assessments from grades to standards-based grading. This is not based on a cumulative point system, but rather is designed to show you the specific areas where your child is excelling, meeting, or approaching tasks that will result in mastery. The former online Power School grading system did not provide the compatability we had hoped for, and was difficult to use last year. This year, there are new changes to the system that should allow for us to record in the same standards-based way we used last year for all subject areas while allowing you to view standards based grades online, too. Please watch for updates and information on how to access your child's performance online. At this time, I strongly encourage you to rely on the work that will be coming home each day in your child's backpack. Looking at these standards marks will give you a good idea of where your child stands. Almost everything we do will be on the four point scale we began last year. Remember:
Extra Credit is rarely an opportunity. I am a firm believer that if students complete the assigned work to the best of their ability and study for the tests, extra credit is not necessary. There is almost always a chance for a 're-do" on unsatisfactory assignments. When a student takes advantage of this, standards will improve. A student who does poor work and makes no attempt to fix mistakes will not be given "extra credit" to improve. Struggling students are always welcome and encouraged to take home the text and review or further practice the lessons covered in class.
- a "4" is going above and beyond, using the concept in a new an innovative way.
- a "3" represents a strong understanding of the concept.
- a "2" indicates beginning understanding, with some understanding still not complete
- a "1" indicates little or no understanding of the concepts being presented
Extra Credit is rarely an opportunity. I am a firm believer that if students complete the assigned work to the best of their ability and study for the tests, extra credit is not necessary. There is almost always a chance for a 're-do" on unsatisfactory assignments. When a student takes advantage of this, standards will improve. A student who does poor work and makes no attempt to fix mistakes will not be given "extra credit" to improve. Struggling students are always welcome and encouraged to take home the text and review or further practice the lessons covered in class.