Student Assessment

At The Sterling Hall School, our approach to student assessment is forward-looking, not backward-looking. Instead of retelling what has been achieved by the student, we identify what students can do to achieve their learning goals. We use a few key strategies to ensure that our assessments accomplish this goal and are understood by students, parents, and other teachers.

We establish expectations

Teachers work together to develop assessment tools and a consistent set of expectations within and across grades. Teachers also regularly review the Essential Skills in their subject area.

We use a variety of assessment tools

Teachers track student progress toward the Essential Skills learning goals, providing students with the opportunity to demonstrate their learning through oral, written, artistic, and active means.

We communicate with students

Teachers explain tasks using written and verbal instructions and demonstrations. They describe the expectations for each task and explain how it will be assessed, and provide advance notice of major projects and tests. Feedback is provided to students in written or verbal format, depending on the task.

We encourage self-reflection about the quality of work

Teachers review assessments in class, when the process and expectations are fresh in students' minds. Students are asked to speak or write about their work periodically.

We communicate with parents

Teachers report to parents formally three times a year and informally in the fall term reports. Two formal Parent-Teacher interviews are held each year. Additional meetings or discussions may take place informally, or if student performance warrants. Parents are also required to sign or comment on student homework, tests, and major assignments.

We recognize homework

Teachers acknowledge completed work and provide credit for accurate work. Homework is also discussed during class time.