Assessments

Assessments

K-8 teachers measure and document student growth on an ongoing basis almost daily, across subject areas. Regular assessments and a standards based grading approach provide valuable insight to help students learn, grow, and take on up-leveled challenges. Parents review progress reports twice a year, and formal parent-teacher conferences occur twice a year and as needed. See samples below of progress reports and also samples of upper grade grading systems.

In Lower School, lessons are differentiated to help students grow and stay in their “stretch zone” as much as possible. We utilize small learning groups particularly around math and structured literacy.  Skills in math, spelling, reading, and other foundational building blocks are assessed regularly, while keeping the focus centered on effort and comprehension. Each student’s personal development is paramount, and their ability to understand and take charge of their own learning is the desired outcome.

In Middle School, students and parents access an online grading system to see completed and missing work, and receive scores and feedback on homework, classwork, and tests. Weekly and monthly tests/quizzes and other assessments help measure student learning, and we use a formal math skills assessment twice a year. Throughout, students have the opportunity to correct mistakes, and seek support for what they don’t know. Consultancy is an important part of the Middle School program and helps students get help from teachers when they need support understanding a concept, studying for a test, or refining an essay. 

As a progressive school, Park Day strives to create an environment where students can dream big, take risks, and innovate. Our teachers get to know each child individually and students are consistently encouraged to reflect on their work and growth, and advocate for themselves when needed in order to deepen their understanding.