ResourcesAPS Extends High School Rollout of SBG
Print This Story
APS is extending the adoption of the standards-based grading system at the high school level. The new timeline calls for high schools to implement SBG in August 2010. Full implementation of SBG for the middle school level remains on schedule for August 2009.
Standards-based grading measures what a student should know and be able to do at each grade level according to Colorado state content standards. Under the standards-based system, students are graded on their achievement on class content. Work habits such as class participation and attendance are recorded separately. SBG is currently used in APS elementary and K-8 schools.
The extended high school timeline will allow APS to develop benchmarks-statements about what students should know and be able to do-for specific content areas. Currently, APS has planning and pacing guides in place, which include benchmarks, for the core content areas of literacy, math, science and social studies. However, benchmarks and levels of proficiency in student work have not been developed for other content areas, such as elective courses. In addition, high school staff will benefit by having additional time for professional learning and practice before standards-based report cards are adopted.
“We received a lot of feedback from staff members who wanted all high school content areas included in the SBG implementation. The reality is that we can’t have two different grading systems. We need to ensure that our grading practices are in alignment and that teachers are well-prepared for this change,” said Student Achievement Director Rich Patterson.
To learn more about standards-based grading and find teacher resources, visit www.apsnet/schools/grading/. To join the SBG Teacher Forum, an online resource where teachers can discuss SBG practices, ask questions and share ideas, go to sbgaps.ning.com.
Print This Story
