We utilize a standards-based report cards.

In Belmont, we utilize a standards-based report cards. A team of teachers and administrators developed this reporting instrument which is designed to give parents more detailed information about students’ progress toward specific learning standards. 

These report cards are based on the standards articulated in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. They clearly reflect the curriculum which is addressed and the learning expectations at each grade level. Students will be evaluated in relation to their progress toward meeting January and June benchmarks. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

• Aligns with curriculum and instruction

• Enables parents to better understand grade level expectations and support their children’s learning

• More frequent evaluation/communication points (The old reporting system included 3 communication points because report cards were not separated from conferences. The pilot includes 4 communication points.)

• More two-way communication during conferences which will not be driven by the report card

• Alerts parents to students’ strengths and areas for growth at the conferences, prior to the official report card

• Reflects the amount of support that students are requiring in relation to each standard

• Supports consistent assessment and reporting across the district

• Incorporates PE, art and music instead of having separate documents with different distribution dates

Report Card Timelines