Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using standards-referenced grading?

For Students:

• Learning targets are clearly defined and aligned with state standards.

• Students are offered multiple opportunities and ways through which to demonstrate proficiency

• Students monitor their own progress toward the achievement of specified targets

• Specific feedback on progress helps build self-esteem, pride, and motivation

For Parents:

• Progress reports are less mysterious and have more meaning

• Parents are aware of exactly what their child knows, is able to do, and next steps for progress

• Parents know in what areas their child needs more support

• Parents are empowered to increase their child's confidence and help their student set goals

For Teachers:

• Teachers know exactly where students stand in their progress toward learning targets and what support needs to be provided

• Teachers of the same courses have aligned expectations and standards

• Assessment results help teachers determine when students need extra support and when they need more challenging work

How are Standards Referenced Indicators different from letter grades?

The traditional report card typically only assigns a single grade for each subject (such as reading, math, science, etc.). However, a standards-referenced report card breaks down each subject into a list of specific skills that students are expected to learn during the school year. Instead of using traditional letter grades, standards referenced indicators are used. These indicators differ from letter grades because they are based on how well the student has mastered the content and skills, rather than just their overall performance on assignments and tests. Letter grades do not provide parents with information about which specific content and skills their children have mastered, or whether they are performing at the expected level for their grade. Standards Referenced Indicators provide a more detailed assessment of student progress by indicating their level of mastery on a continuum. 

Who else is using Standards Reference Grade Cards?

A number of districts in Kansas have adopted standards-based grading at the elementary level.  Here are some examples of school districts that have implemented this grading system:

• USD 229- Blue Valley Public Schools

• USD 232- De Soto Public Schools

• USD 259- Wichita Public Schools

• USD 385- Andover Public Schools

• USD 402- Augusta Public Schools

• USD 497- Lawrence Public Schools

Is there research to support the use of standards-referenced grading?

Yes.  Please visit the What is Standards Referenced Grading page for more information. 

Are the learning standards available online?  If so, where?

Yes.  All learning standards are available through the Kansas State Department of Education website.  Use the links below to navigate to the standards.

• English Language Arts

• Math

• Science

• History, Government, and Social Studies Standards 

How can I help my child at home to get him more prepared to perform at a 4 level?

Teachers will teach content to the mastery level (Level 3).  Prioritizing the achievement of Level 3- Mastery in the standards is crucial.  For some standards, students may be able to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the skills needed for mastery through classroom learning opportunities which could result in an exemplary level score.  It is important to note in some cases, an exemplary level score (4) may not be applicable to the standard students are learning.  

Will students be retained if they have not mastered a certain amount of content in their current grade or if they are scoring at Level 1- Needs Improvement?

No, we follow a standards-referenced approach. In our system, students consistently advance to the next grade level. Studies have indicated that holding students back is not an effective strategy. Therefore, it is more beneficial for us to dedicate our time and effort to supporting students throughout the academic year by offering high-quality primary instruction and enrichment or intervention programs.

How can parents be expected to clarify to their kids the reasons behind not achieving a score of 3 or 4?

It is crucial for parents and educators to engage in open and sincere discussions with students. Certain standards and concepts may be more challenging to understand, but with enough time and motivation, students can continuously push themselves. The mindset of adults involved is influential, and it is essential for them to convey to students that learning is a journey that deserves respect. A score of 2 when acquiring a new skill or concept is suitable, while a score of 3, indicating mastery, should be celebrated.

How will I know how my child is doing without letter grades?  What does a 2 mean?  Is a 2 a C?

It will be crucial to examine the performance indicators on the grade card.  Our grading indicators do not convert to letter grades and should not be interpreted as such. 

How will standards-referenced grading affect the honor roll? 

Honor Roll will no longer be awarded to students starting in the 2024-2025 school year.  Standards-based grading is focused on comparing students learning to learning targets and not about comparing students to peers.  In a traditional grading system, honor rolls are inconsistent, imprecise, and not accurate indicators of student success, much like grades themselves.  What one student does for an ‘A’ to be on the honor roll may be very different than another student who has an ‘A’ on the honor roll.  We recognize that student recognition is important, so buildings will be working on finding different ways to celebrate student successes as we transition to this grading system.

How will this affect students with special needs?

Student performance will be evaluated based on the standards set for their grade level.  Individual progress will continue to be measured with the student's IEP/504 goals. Additionally, supports identified in a student's IEP/504 will continue to be followed.

How can I help my child at home?

We appreciate the support and involvement of parents working with students. Another great piece about standards grading is you will know EXACTLY what your child is struggling with and where to help them. We have linked HERE a list of resources you can access from home to better help your child in mastering their grade-level standards.