School Report Cards
Academic Progress & Student 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
Timelines
October/November: Conferences
Parents and teachers meet for conversations about students’ learning. There will be no written documents at this time.
End of January: Report Cards Issued
These will be made available via the parent portal.
Report Card Ratings
Students’ academic performance will be rated using the following performance indicators:
M – The student demonstrates mastery of the concept/skill and applies it with independence.
D – The student is developing an understanding of the concept/skill with occasional support.
B – The student is beginning to understand the concept/skill with frequent support.
NY – The student does not yet understand the concept/skill and requires consistent support.
School and District Report Cards
School Report Cards are available on the District Website.
We encourage you to become involved in helping us improve our schools and district. Some of the ways you can become involved are:
Encouraging your child’s learning at home
Attending parent-teacher meetings and other special meetings
Serving as a volunteer in our school or district
Encouraging other parents to become involved
School report cards are available in all school offices, the Superintendent's office, the Town Clerk's office, and the Belmont Public Library. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Assistant Superintendent, at (617) 993-5410.
March: Conferences
Parents and teachers meet for conversations about students’ learning. There will be no written documents at this time.
June: Report Cards Issued
These will be made available via the parent portal.