It is important at this time of year to take a look at how much our students have learned as well as how much more they are expected to learn before the end of the school year. There are several measures we can use to assess progress. I believe one of the most comprehensive indicators of how well students are performing is the report card. Report card grades are not based on an individual task, test, or assignment. Report card grades take into account many different assessments both authentic and standard. This allows students' grades to reflect their performance on a variety of assignments and assessments that are geared toward different learning styles. Providing students multiple ways and opportunities to demonstrate mastery of the curriculum also allows us to get an idea of the depth of a student's understanding of curriculum objectives.
A recent review of report card grades indicates that the number of students performing at or above grade level continues to increase. This has been a steady trend dating back to the second quarter of the 2009-2010 school year (the first time we were able to examine report card grades). Teachers' collaborative work of reviewing student data and improving instructional practices to meet student needs is making a difference! Students and parents deserve congratulations as well. The students' high level of engagement in learning at school and the support provided at home certainly have a positive impact on student learning. We are excited about the remainder of the school year and look forward to continued student progress and success.