Gradebook Impact Study

District 225's Strategic Planning process has identified and targeted a clear focus on student wellness through various lenses: student stress, citizenship, distraction/focus, identity, mindsets, and social-emotional learning.

Amongst other areas, one item of focus for potential evaluation is the impact of gradebook access and notifications on student distraction/focus and stress during the school day. This topic emerged from a variety of sources:

• teacher commentary
• student commentary
• classroom observations
• PowerSchool usage data
• parent commentary during strategic planning

Upon completion of a process to determine the scope of the issue, students and staff alike identified a specific need to study the impact of gradebook access on student wellness. Because we have more questions than answers, this exploration is just that: a study. No decision is being made or piloted at this time.

The Study

To that end, District 225 will conduct a study of the gradebook and its impact on student wellness. Starting April 4, gradebook access will be offered during non-school hours of 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. and all day on weekends and non-attendance days. This means that gradebook access will not be available during the school day for students and parents.

Your Support

Our focus and interest in student wellness makes this a valuable study. As we participate in this study, let us reflect, slow down, listen attentively, and try to see beyond first impressions. We ask for your support as we move forward.