Narragansett Elementary School
Standards-Based Report Card

What is a standards-based report card?

A standards-based report card reports student progress toward meeting content and performance standards instead of comparing students to each other. Benchmarks are used to determine if the student is making progress toward meeting the standards. We are in the process of developing those benchmarks. This reporting system is in line with the Narragansett School System Strategic Plan, as well as the NES School Improvement Plan.

Last year, we piloted the Work Sampling Reporting System in the 1st trimester. At the conclusion of the process, we sought feedback from staff and families. Based on that feedback and in an effort to make the process less time-intensive, that document evolved throughout the year. This new report card will be correlated with a portfolio of student work that demonstrates proficiency in areas addressed by the standards. Each portfolio will contain a cover sheet outlining the core items included by all teachers at the grade level.

The report card will indeed look differently than the traditional one that has depended on a single letter grade for each subject. We want to communicate to families what it is we expect students to know and be able to do. Utilizing a standards-based system will give parents more accurate information on students' progress towards standards. Grades will be based on teacher evidence of student performance against year-end standards.  Evidence will usually have come from a combination of tasks scored using rubrics, graded classroom assessments, teacher observations, and other criteria.

Please understand that our journey to a standards-based school is a process. As we continue on this road, we will be aligning our curriculum with the standards, developing benchmarks, and looking at student work to ensure consistency across classrooms. We appreciate your involvement and feedback, as it is only through a collaborative effort that we can promise success for all students.

The Standards-Based Classroom

In standards-based classrooms, the standards remain constant as year-end standards. High standards of performance are expected of all students. The standards are public, and teaching and assessment are directed at ensuring that all students have an opportunity to meet these standards. Different students progress at different rates, so standards will be met in varying amounts of time.

You should see evidence that:

• Standards of performance are clearly described.
•   Standards are public. Students, teachers, and parents all know what type and level of performance are expected of students.
•    Progress is measured based on absolute standards -  no "grading on a curve".
•    Repeated opportunities are provided for students to meet the standards.
•    Rigorous assignments are provided that address the standards to help students become ready for the next level of education.
•    Teaching and learning emphasize using (applying) knowledge and skills learned in "real world" situations. Teachers ask, "What can students do to demonstrate what they know and are able to do?"
•    Students are assessed not only on their ability to memorize information, but also on their ability to use and apply information, interpret information, and think critically.
•    Teaching and assessment are organized around standards, rather on just coverage of information.
•     Teachers believe that all students can learn.
•      Students who fail to meet the standards receive interventions.
•      Students are held accountable for their learning.

Please feel free to address any comments or questions to your child's teacher,