Academics

The purpose of grading is to show what students know and are able to do in relation to course standards.

• Reflects learning and academic achievement
• Contains meaningful feedback
• Aligns with Princeton Public Schools Curriculum
• Reflects consistency among classes, grade levels, and/or departments

Academic Practice (Formative) Assessments are given while a student is learning the material. This is designed to provide direction for both students and teachers.

• Feedback for students from this kind of assessment will show students what adjustments are still needed to master the material such as further review and/or additional practice. Or it may confirm that the student is ready to move forward.
• For teachers, it may provide feedback indicating a need to change instructional strategies or to provide additional practice. Or it may signal that you are ready to move forward.
• Practice (formative) assessments include activities such as teacher observations, quizzes, homework, rough drafts, peer editing, and notebook checks, etc.
• Each teacher will identify and explain academic practice (formative) assessments in gradebook and course outline which is provided to students and parents.
• Practice (formative) assessments will make up 25% of a student’s overall grade.

Academic Achievement (Summative) Assessments are given after completing a sequence of instruction and practice and students are ready to be responsible for the material.

• This provides information used to make judgments about a student’s achievement/grade.
• Academic achievement (summative)assessments include: final drafts, tests, exams, projects, and essays, and performances.
• Each teacher will identify and explain academic achievement assessments in gradebook and course outline which is provided to students and parents.
• Academic Achievement (Summative) Assessments will make up 75% of a student’s overall grade.

Step 1 - Ask your student(s) questions about their progress and help identify potential areas for growth. If needed, develop a plan to improve. Empower your student by having them talk to their teachers about their learning and progress in class.

Step 2 - If your child continues to struggle, contact the classroom teacher to find ways to help your student be successful. Our school has many academic supports and programs to help all our students be successful.

Step 3 - When students are struggling in multiple classes, parents should contact their advisor and/or guidance counselor to develop an academic plan for improvement.