A Conversation About Student Progress
NO STUDENT SHOULD BE REDUCED TO A NUMBER. In Ancona’s child-centered classrooms, assessment of student learning is a continuous process for both teachers and students. Through observations, conversations with children, and examinations of their work, teachers develop understandings of how individual students are learning. Teachers then adjust the pace, content or direction of the curriculum to facilitate greater learning for individual children and for class.
Starting in preschool and continuing through middle school, students are involved in the assessment process to:
- Reflect upon and examine their own learning
- Celebrate their growth
- Set their own new goals
Ancona parents are full partners in the learning process. Our teachers communicate with parents throughout the school year and are available for additional consultation when necessary.
Student evaluations that go beyond the norm
The learning that takes place every day – academic, social, emotional, and civic – demands a thoughtful assessment that helps parents and students understand what student progress really means. Ancona faculty collaborate to create an in-depth perspective of the student.
In an effort to smoothly transition students from our independent, progressive school to a variety of high schools, letter grades are given to 7th and 8th grade students. The NWEA MAP test is administered in the 6th and 7th grades to prepare students for the high school admissions process.
ASSESSMENT CALENDAR
September Parent Conference: This is an opportunity for parents new to a classroom to get to know their student’s teachers and to establish a working relationship for the year. Mutual expectations are exchanged and any early concerns are identified.
Fall Progress Report: This report describes each student’s growth as a member of the classroom community and as a learner. The teachers report on each student’s learning in the various subject areas. This report is mailed to the student’s family in November.
November Parent Conference: This is a time for parents and teachers to review findings of the Fall Progress Report and determine appropriate goals and plans for the second quarter of the year.
Winter Progress Report: This report is an update on growth since the Fall Report and on the goals set at the November conference. The report is mailed to the student’s family in March.
March Parent Conference: Here parents and teachers review the Winter Report and determine appropriate plans for the final quarter of the year.
End-of-the-Year Report: This report includes a summary of the year’s work and recommendations for summer and the coming year.