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Standards-based & Trimester grading
Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, we will stop using traditional letter/number grades for Fourth and Fifth students and shift to Standards-based Grading. Elementary students will no longer receive report cards four times a year like they have in the past. Instead, we will provide progress reports on a trimester schedule. The information below explains more.
Standards-based Grading
Standards-based grading (SBG) is an educational approach that focuses on assessing and reporting a student's proficiency/mastery of the learning standards. Instead of traditional letter grades, SBG provides detailed information on how well students are mastering specific skills and content.
Key Features of Standards-Based Grading
- Clear Learning Targets: Each subject has specific standards that students need to achieve. These targets are communicated clearly to students and parents.
- Proficiency Levels: Student performance is reported based on their level of proficiency on a standard or group of standards. Levels include:
- EX - Exceeding Standards – The student demonstrates advanced understanding and exceeds grade-level expectations.
- DM - Demonstrating Standards – The student demonstrates proficiency and meets grade-level expectations.
- DV - Developing Standards – The student is developing proficiency but needs more practice.
- EM - Emerging Standards – The student's understanding of the standards is growing.
- ND - Not Yet Demonstrating Standards - The student is not yet demonstrating expectations of the standards.
- NA - Standards Not Assessed - Standards were not assessed during the grading period.
- Focus on Learning: SBG emphasizes student learning and growth over time, rather than averaging grades over a period.
Trimester Grading Schedule
Our school year is divided into three trimesters, each approximately 12 weeks long. This schedule allows for regular reporting and reflection on student progress.
FIRST TRIMESTER
SEPTEMBER-
NOVEMBER
SECOND TRIMESTER
DECEMBER-
FEBRUARY
THIRD TRIMESTER
MARCH-
JUNE
Progress Reports
At the end of each trimester, you will receive a progress report that details your child’s proficiency in each standard. Progress reports may also be sent mid-trimester to provide updates on student progress.
Benefits of Standards-Based Grading
- Detailed Feedback: You receive specific information on strengths and areas needing improvement.
- Targeted Support: Teachers can identify and address learning gaps more effectively.
- Growth Mindset: Students are encouraged to focus on their growth and progress.
FAQ
Traditional grading often combines various elements like homework, tests, and participation into a single grade. SBG separates these elements to provide a clearer picture of student learning against specific standards.
Teachers assess students’ proficiency through various methods, including quizzes, tests, projects, and observations. These assessments are aligned with the learning standards and reflect the students’ understanding and skills.
Encourage your child to understand the learning targets and seek help in areas where they are not yet proficient. Regular communication with teachers can also help you stay informed about your child’s progress.
Contact Us
For more information about standards-based grading or if you have specific questions, please contact your child’s teacher or the school administration.
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