Standards-Based Grading at Hilltop

Grades that are valid, reliable and transparent provide an accurate reflection of the knowledge and skills students have mastered.

Why Standards-Based Grading?

Research shows that standards-based grading provides a more accurate measurement of student learning while providing students more details on what they are expected to learn and the progress they have made in their learning.

What is Grading for Learning?

Assessments of student learning align with local, state and/or national standards. All instruction and assessments have clear learning targets and success criteria that are communicated to students. The grading system will build students' confidence in learning and will provide students opportunities to show proficiency.

What Does a Grade Represent?

Grades will be developed from the summative and formative assessment process. Students' final grades will be based on mastery of standards at grade-level expectations and will be communicated as Beginning Standard, Approaching Standard, Meeting Standard or Extending Standard, depending on the level of mastery.

How Does SBG Support Students?

Learning does not happen for all kids at the same time - some need additional time and support. Students will be allowed more than one attempt to demonstrate learning. Intelligence is not fixed but is flexible and can improve as a result of extended effort and dedication (a growth mindset). Mistakes are a natural part of learning!

Only Learning Counts

Characteristics and behaviors of successful learners will be reported separately from academic grades. A student's final grade reflects standards that have been mastered.