Grades

Grades help teachers and parents know what students are learning and what help they may need! In elementary school, grades are about progress. In secondary schools, grades are about achievement. The grading systems in each school district are different. Ask your child's teachers or school counselors if you have any questions about grades.

• Talk to teachers: If a child is struggling, parents can contact the teachers for help. Schools want parents to talk with them so they can help them understand how their children are doing.

• Report cards go out quarterly. Your child’s grades are the average of all the work they have done that quarter.

• Use online portals: Many schools have websites where parents can check grades. Sometimes, schools post report cards in the portal.

• Call guidance: If you need help understanding grades, call the teacher or guidance counselor.

• Encourage good study habits: Help with homework and study time at home. This can improve your child's grades.

Elementary School Grading (Focus is on Progress):

The Goal: In elementary school, the goal is to see how your child is growing and learning. It's less about strict letter grades and more about progress.

Common Elementary Grading Systems:

• Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory: 

  • S means your child is meeting learning goals

  • U means your child is not meeting learning goals

• Progress Reports: Teachers often provide reports at the end of each grading period. The report explains your child's strengths and areas where he or she needs help.

• Checklists: Specific skills and whether your child has mastered them. See the example below.

• Letter Grades (A, B, C, D, F): Some elementary schools use letter grades, but they might be less emphasized than in secondary school. 

  • You may see a + or - behind the grade. 

  • + Means better than the grade. 

  • - means less than the grade. 

  • For example, B+ means a high B, almost an A. 

  • B- means a low B, almost a C.

What to Look For:

• Focus on the teacher's comments and the overall picture of your child's progress.

• Attend parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child's learning.

• Elementary grades are about making sure your child is building a good foundation so he or she will continue to do well in school. 

Sample Elementary Grading Scale
https://www.henricoschools.us/page/grading-scale