Report Cards and Conferences

Over the next few weeks I will spend time with students assessing reading levels, math levels, writing levels. We took our Fall Writing Assessment last week. I haven't looked at them yet. I know that this test weighs heavily on the writing grade for students on the report card. I also know that in a week we will take the 2nd math test for the year and this will also be a big focus on the report card.

Report card time is such a stressor for me. I look at the collection of evidence, the testing measures, the expectations and then assess it on the rubric. Students know that the Fluency goal for "standard" is to PASS a +3 or -3 on the test the week of conferences. In class our discussions about goals are centered around standard and exceeding, meeting and working towards a goal. One example is: some students have surpassed +3 or -3 already. We have established how to make a personal goal that is workable, attainable, and keeps them focused and practicing for fluency.

Report card are also a time when I look at each child not just over the last week, but over the course of the quarter. What are some of the great things that have been done? What are some of the opportunities in class that he or she could focus on. Are there distractions? Is he or she causing distractions? Is work done timely, is it neat , does the student understand the expectations of the classroom? Is the student a leader? And if so, why? I try to encompass the WHY so that I know that I am really looking at the trueness of the statement.

As we work towards our goals and I have the opportunity to meet with each of you for conferences, I really hope that we can discuss your child's strengths, opportunities and personal goals. I enjoy meeting with you as I continue to learn about your child, see growth, and challenge them during class.

I hope that you have turned your form in (if not, it was emailed again today) and that any questions, concerns, or celebrations you have we will get the chance to talk about and share. (well, in our 30 minute time frame!)

Have a great Monday!