No Matter, There

Our school has just switched from quarterly to trimester reports, and it’s an interesting change for me. As a “specials” teacher, I used to do student evaluations only twice a year, while the regular team teachers did quarterly reports. Now, the team teachers and the specials are doing trimester reports, and I am enjoying the chance to give this extra feedback. Our student evaluations are always being tweaked, and I think that we are doing some good work with them.

Each student gets a narrative, as well as an evaluation of how they are doing on a developmentally appropriate continuum within the major categories. I developed the descriptors for my subject areas. In technology literacy, for instance, an Intermediate student could be evaluated as “Developing”–and a set of descriptors points out that a developing student at this level:

• Usually demonstrates positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology
• Explores general purpose productivity tools and peripherals with support
• Begins to use keyboards and other common input and output devices (including adaptive devices when necessary) efficiently and effectively
• Uses technology resources for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories

The descriptors for “Capable” and “Strong” are also given on that page. I think it is helpful for families to see the continuum their student is on, as well as where the student is at this moment.

I still do a narrative, though, and because I am a “specials” teacher, I see every student, so I get to do an evaluation for EVERY student K-8 except preschoolers!

Which is my excuse for not posting lately. I’ve been thinking, but mostly about each and every student I have.

Filed under: Student Evaluations and