The Hancock Central School District has developed a comprehensive alternative grading system to gauge student progress during the state-mandated school closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced the implementation of remote-learning platforms world-wide during the second half of the 2019-20 school year.
The HCSD Modified Grading System©, authored by Superintendent Terrance P. Dougherty, Ph.D., presents an equity-based approach to evaluating student progress toward the accomplishment of key learning outcomes. This innovative model blends prior student work, teacher feedback, and student self-assessment to help educators determine final grades for the 2019-20 academic year. The model differentiates between grades K-8 and 9-12.
In grades K-8, a scoring tool known as a rubric will be used to determine a final proficiency rating for each student, which takes into consideration the first three quarters of in-building education as well as the fourth quarter of remote learning. Each student will receive an assessment rating of either minimally proficient, proficient, advanced proficient, or advanced proficient with distinction. Students assessed as minimally proficient will move to the next grade level after attending summer school or an enrichment equivalent. All other ratings will advance to the next grade level as well.
In grades 9-12, inclusive of eighth-graders working toward high school credits, a grade will be calculated based on a combination of student performance during the first three quarters, teacher assessment of student achievement during the remote-learning period, a student self-assessment, and an administrator assessment.
Implementation of the HCSD Modified Grading System© is supported by the HCSD Board of Education.
Hancock is committed to providing continuous communication with all stakeholders via direct mailings, media releases and updates to its online platforms (website, Facebook, Twitter).
Hancock is also committed to preparing its students for college and life and to providing the best possible learning opportunities during this challenging time. Hancock will continue to provide instructional continuity to ensure our students’ learning outcomes do not suffer during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Posted 5/6/2020