Process

Current media suggest some believe society is facing issues with distraction, lack of focus, and overwhelming stress. In fact, a comprehensive study of adolescent stress found student stress to be higher than that of adults for the first time.

As part of our student wellness initiative, various District 225 groups discussed the potential impact of gradebook access on students and whether we should consider exploring potential changes to our existing process. After building and district administration examined the need to explore this further, it was determined that a committee should formally review the topic.

Committee Formed

A committee consisting of teachers, counselors, instructional supervisors, district administrators, student newspaper members, and sender district representatives spent a ½ day exploring the impact of gradebook access on student wellness from a distraction/focus and stress lens. From this work, the committee determined that neither a decision nor pilot should happen and decided the following next steps:

• formulate a study to more thoroughly understand the impact of gradebook access on student wellness during the school day
• review the idea of a study with students before moving forward
• focus the study on understanding the lived student experience and what we can do to "educate for living" in the future

A Study is Proposed

The word "Study" is important. It speaks to a need for more understanding and a desire to dive deeper into the issue before beginning a decision making process.

Students were invited to share their experiences and observations regarding gradebook access during the school day as part of their review of the proposed study.

• GBN Student Focus Group
• GBS Student Focus Group

Based upon the overwhelming support from these student groups, the study was reviewed a final time by district administration and building administration. This review resulted in full approval and support.