Standards-Based Learning and Assessment

What is Standards-Based Learning?

Standards-Based Learning (SBL) is a system which focuses on student learning, growth and academic achievement. Students will be provided with clearly defined learning targets, called learning standards, which provide the baseline that is consistent across all students at the grade level and help guide teacher instruction. Students will receive feedback based on their demonstrated understanding of these specific learning standards, concepts and skills. Instead of a numerical grade, feedback is provided on each standard so students and their guardian(s) can easily see which concepts they understood well, which they need to improve on, and allows for teachers to modify or adjust instruction as needed.

What does Standards-Based Assessment (SBA) mean for reporting periods?

Student achievement on report cards is directly related to what students know and can do. SBA supports regular communication between students and teachers and encourages goal setting and monitoring of progress. Students will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate learning based on feedback. The teacher will assign a letter grade based on the most recent evidence of student learning. Feedback can be viewed regularly throughout the term by parents and students in PowerSchool, along with other subjects that will still use a traditional numerical grading system. When students receive their June report, they will receive a list with a letter grade for completed learning standards showing how well they mastered each skill.