Grading Policy

Our grading policy is designed to keep families informed about student growth in relation to grade-level standards. Report cards, issued three times a year, reflect academic and social-emotional development through a 4-point scale and narrative feedback—highlighting both current progress and future goals.

Grading Reflects Growth Over Time

Our reporting system is designed to support the home-school partnership by communicating student progress toward evolving grade-level benchmarks. Because expectations increase throughout the year, maintaining the same grade across marking periods often indicates continued growth and development in that skill area.

Report Cards and Grading Approach

Report cards are issued in December, March, and June, reflecting both academic progress and social-emotional development. Final grades are based solely on June performance. Homework supports skill practice and may inform effort grades, but it does not impact academic achievement grades.

Report cards are issued digitally via your NYC Schools Accounts (NYCSA). Login at SchoolsAccount.NYC.gov.

Performance Levels and Feedback

Report cards use a 4-point scale based on observable student behaviors, paired with narrative comments that outline next steps for growth.

1: Rarely meets expectations 

2: Meets behavioral expectations when reminded/occasionally

3: Usually meets behavioral expectations 

4: Independently meets behavioral expectations

Families are encouraged to review report cards with their child and maintain open communication with teachers. Grade-related questions should be addressed during conferences.

How Academic Grades Are Determined

Student performance in each subject is assessed using a range of tools.

  • Reading: Reading grades will be determined using a combination of the TC Running Record Assessment, mid and end of unit reading assessments, teacher conferences, and classroom discussions during book clubs, read alouds, and/or partner conversations. 

  • Writing: Writing grades will be determined by on-demand assessments for each unit and independent classwork. 

  • Social Studies: Social Studies grades will be determined using a combination of unit assessments, independent classwork, and classroom discussions.

  • Math: Students are assessed on their conceptual understanding, their precision and accuracy and their ability to solve problems in multiple ways and explain solutions. Math grades will be determined by an average of mid unit assessments, end of unit assessments and quizzes.  Additionally, journal entries, contributions to class discussions and partner talk will be considered. 

  • Academic and Personal Behaviors: Students are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior during all classes to facilitate their own learning as well as the learning of classmates.