Schools Provide Updates On Graduation, Student Grading

MADISON, CT — In a message to families, school officials provided an update on what the graduation of the Class of 2020 may look like, and, an update on grading.

Here's the full message:

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

"Among the countless cherished activities and events that have been in question since the outset of the statewide school closure is high school graduation. I want to assure all students and parents that this seminal event will be recognized in some form. A great deal of that decision-making is dependent on the public health guidance that we anticipate receiving in the coming weeks. However, in order to be fully prepared, Daniel Hand High School Principal, TJ Salutari, will be convening a "Graduation Planning Committee" comprised of faculty, administrators, students, and parents shortly after the spring vacation week. In addition, Mr. Salutari intends to survey students and parents in the coming weeks as options begin to be identified. The type of event, and the timing of the graduation event, will be determined over the coming weeks as more public health information is provided, and as more ideas are brainstormed. There will be much, much more to come on this topic, however, rest assured that pending health guidance, we are fully committed to an appropriate graduation event for our seniors.

STUDENT REPORTING/GRADING

"On April 7, Commissioner of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona offered state guidance regarding grading practices. In the message he supported districts in developing a locally guided protocol while providing continuing educational opportunities. The state department identified potential options for districts to consider when examining the local and home challenges of distance learning.

After considerable debate and input from educators, national experts and regional organizations, Madison Public Schools has developed a plan for grading practices that continues to offer developmentally appropriate feedback informed by evidence. In addition, we continue to honor the importance of student choice at the high school level so individuals can best determine how to represent their work for school year 2020.

Although you will hear more details from your building principal, the following outline will provide some context for the reporting of progress for the end of this year:

K-5 students will receive a narrative report with core areas listing specific student feedback and goals from the trimester.Grades 6-8 students will have a system of Pass/Incomplete for trimester 3 content. Teacher comments will reflect additional feedback when needed. There will be consistent attempts to engage learners in opportunities to regain their status and pass the trimester if they are at risk of receiving an Incomplete.

Grades 9-12 students will have the choice of a numeric grade OR a Pass/Fail option for each class in trimester 3. Again, students will be actively notified if they are deemed at risk in a class. Although approaches to grading may vary from district to district, this model was developed with considerable research of national and regional practices. Colleges and universities expect that transcripts will reflect a change in the traditional approach for this period of time. Please refer to the notification from your building principal for additional details and resources that will be posted."