I am a parent with three children in the Federal Way school district. Two of my children are in elementary, one is in high school, and one recently graduated from high school last year. As a parent, I believe the Standard Based Grading and Reporting (SBGR) system is a great way to stay on top of up my student’s performance progress and achievement. Standards-based grading and reporting creates a two-way communication path between teachers and parents. It provides feedback on our student’s progress and their achievement, with transparent expectations.

It also suggests areas where each student needs to improve and provides clear feedback on the next steps needed to help our children academically. Every parent’s dream is to see his or her child succeed academically and socially and I think the SBGR approach helps in meeting this goal.

Having a chance to see how my children are doing academically allows me to support them in time to ensure they are successful in school and prepared for the future. For example at the student-led conferences, my children’s teachers discuss their progress and areas that need improvement. I believe this gives parents a significant opportunity to help their children get and stay on track and work towards a successful pathway for their future. SBGR also provides a foundation for teachers, students and parents to work collaboratively toward identifying academic opportunities and concerns, in a way that meets the student’s specific needs.

Another important benefit to SBGR is that it can help motivate students to work harder. My children always get excited to show me their progress and I appreciate the opportunity it creates for them to show me the results of their efforts and hard work. It also gives me a chance to encourage them and make a clearer plan for their success.

Lastly, SBGR creates shared accountability because it separates academic performance from social development, and work habits. I value the opportunity to be the lead support for my children’s behavior and work habits, so the teacher can focus on instruction. I would be delighted to see more parents/caregivers participate in the SBGR community forums and seek more information about the positive impact of SBGR.

Grace Ssebugwawo

Federal Way