Introducing Standards Based Report Cards   

Why the change?
Report cards must be aligned with the state curriculum.  The state of Georgia has now fully implemented the Georgia Performance Standards as its curriculum in grades 1-5. The standards based report card will reflect a student's progress against these standards. Classrooms should look, feel and sound different than they have in the past because of the new standards-based approach to teaching and learning.

What is the purpose?

This report card will provide feedback to students, parents and administrators about academic achievement. 

What is the benefit for my child?
This report card provides a clear picture of what your child knows and is able to do.  It  provides detailed information about your child's strengths and weaknesses. Standards based grading gives your student multiple opportunities to learn and time to practice new knowledge without fear of receiving a grade. This helps all students.You will witness this in a standards-based classroom.

How will my child be assessed?

Your child will be assessed in a variety of ways including projects, tests, performances tasks, teacher observations and conversations. This work will be kept in a portfolio.  You may review the portfolio at any time.

Instead of a number grade, you will see:   

Mastery is when a student can consistently demonstrate knowledge. Expectations for mastering the standards increases throughout the school year. Performance charts have been developed to show the expectations for each grading period.  These charts will be sent home and are located on our system's webpage. 

Beyond standards based report cards, what other ways will my school communicate with me?
The report card is only one method of communication.  Other ways include notes in the agenda, parent conferences, phone calls and progress reports. Please feel free to contact your child's teacher when you have a question or a concern.

What can I do to help my child?

•   Read to and with your child daily
•    Collaborate with the teacher and school
•   Read the report card and ask questions 
•   Help your child work on standards needing improvement
•   Challenge your child on areas of strength
•   Ask your child questions including lots of "why" and "how"
•   Provide many opportunities for writing
•   Encourage your child to succeed

When will report cards be issued?  

• Report cards will be issued four times a year. 

Who do I contact if I have questions?

1. Your child's teacher
2. Your child's principal
3. Ashley Crawford, Elementary Curriculum Director (770-229-3710, ext. 362)
4. Denise Burrell, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction (770-229-3710, ext. 370)