As we get closer to reporting student learning for the end of first quarter, we want to set your expectations on how students are assessed and how we will communicate student learning.
This year, our district is moving to standards based reporting (SBR). Instead of focusing primarily on points, assignments, or percentages, we will focus on the specific skills students are learning and their progress toward mastery.
Beginning this school year, traditional letter grades are no longer used for academic areas in grades 3–6. (Students in PK–2 already do not receive letter grades in academic subjects.) Instead, academic progress will be reported using a performance scale tied to grade-level standards. Student learning will be evaluated based on a body of evidence over time rather than a simple accumulation of points. Habits of work, such as responsibility, participation, and collaboration, will still be communicated, but they will be reported separately from academic achievement.
We Are Learning Too!
Standards-based reporting is new for our district, our families, and teachers. As we learn and gain experience with the system, please give teachers grace as they try new things. Our goal is to give you a clearer picture of what your child knows, what they are working toward, and what they need next.
The way learning is reported may look different, but teaching and learning continues to be our priority each and every day. Our teachers continue to recognize students' strengths and areas for growth in their learning just as we have always done.
To help families understand the changes, Boise School District is hosting Understanding Your Child’s New Elementary Report Card: A Parent’s Guide to Standards-Based Reporting on Tuesday, October 6, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at the Boise School District Training Center.
Thank you for partnering with us!
