Our district is excited to extend Standards-Based report cards for students in grades 3 through 5. Currently, our kindergarten through second-grade classrooms have consistently used Standards-Based Grading to clearly communicate student learning. Building on this strong foundation, the district will extend Standards-Based Grading to grades 3–5, creating a more consistent and aligned grading experience across all elementary schools.

At the core of our district’s mission is a commitment to engage and empower all students to positively impact their community and future. To honor that commitment, we regularly look at how students are learning, how we teach, and how we can best meet the needs of every child as our community grows and changes.

We believe it is important for families to understand both what their child is expected to learn and how they are progressing toward grade-level goals. We look forward to continuing our partnership with families as we work together to provide each child with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to be successful and reach their fullest potential.

Why does this matter?

Standards-Based report cards give a clearer picture of student learning by showing progress in specific skills and concepts aligned with the Illinois Learning Standards. Instead of one overall grade, families see detailed information about learning in each subject area. This approach supports our district’s commitment to clarity, consistency, and student success.

What will families see?

• Clear learning expectations for students
• Strengths and areas for growth
• Meaningful information about progress
• Helps teachers target instruction and support learning
• Consistent grading across elementary grades

What Standards-Based Grading tells us about student progress

Standards-Based Grading looks at how well a student understands and applies key skills and concepts aligned to academic standards. This means grades reflect what a student knows and can do right now, rather than how they performed earlier in the learning process.

What will Standards-Based Grading look like for ELL students and students with IEPs?

Standards-Based Grading is designed to support all learners by focusing on individual progress toward clearly defined learning goals. For English Language Learners (ELLs) and students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Standards-Based Grading (SBG) provides a more accurate and equitable picture of what students know and can do.

How will Standards-Based Grading benefit your child?

Traditional grading uses letter grades or percentages based on overall performance. Standards-Based Grading focuses on students' mastery of specific skills and standards. Grades will be determined by summative and formative assessments that will show a student's level of mastery of the Illinois standards. All students will receive instruction at the standard and receive support when needed.

Your child knows exactly what they are learning

Each subject is broken into specific skills and learning goals, not just one overall grade. Clear targets help students feel less confused and more confident.

Grades show learning

Academic scores reflect what your child knows and can do. Parents can clearly see academic understanding, work habits, and responsibility.

Feedback helps your child improve

Instead of just seeing a letter grade, students receive specific feedback about their strengths and areas for growth. This teaches children that learning is a process, mistakes are part of learning, and they can improve with practice.

More consistent and fair grading

Because grades are based on shared standards, expectations are the same across classrooms. Grades are not based on extra credit or bonus points, and all students are measured on the same learning goals.