Grade Reporting

Overview

Standards-based knowledge and skills are the foundation of every student’s learning, fostering a solid base for further inquiry and exploration across various fields and interests. The ARUSD Elementary Report Cards are designed to communicate students' progress toward mastering these skills and standards. The ARUSD Transitional Kindergarten standards are structured to lead into the Kindergarten standards. ARUSD utilizes the California Preschool Learning Foundations to set end-of-year Kindergarten readiness expectations.

All ARUSD students in grades TK-5 receive marks reflecting their progress toward end-of-year expectations. Mastery is indicated by a score of 3 or higher. Instead of traditional letter grades, students receive marks that describe their proficiency levels. Each student is given proficiency level indicators for the standards relevant to their grade.

ALL ARUSD students in grades 6-8 receive letter grades per course.  These grades will translate to points toward their overall cumulative GPA.  In order to receive a promotion certificate and participate in promotion activities, middle school students must maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA and have good attendance. 

Conferencing with Your Child’s Teacher

Parent/Guardian/Teacher Conferences are a valuable opportunity to discuss your child’s progress. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Before the Conference:

• Confirm your scheduled conference time. If you need to cancel, reach out to the teacher to arrange another time.
• Review your child’s work.
• Discuss your child’s progress with them.
• Reflect on your child’s strengths and challenges beforehand.
• Prepare a list of questions about your child’s development and how you and the teacher can address any challenges. For example: Is my child on track for this time of year? In which areas are they excelling? How is their attendance? How can I support my child with upcoming assignments?
• Consider how you would like to be involved in your child’s learning so you can share your ideas with the teacher.

At the Conference:

• Be ready for a two-way conversation about your child’s social, emotional, and academic progress. This is also a chance for the teacher to understand your child better at home. Sharing insights about your child’s skills, interests, needs, and aspirations helps the teacher provide more effective support.
• Request to see data regarding your child’s attendance and progress.
• Collaborate with the teacher to set goals and a plan for your child's success.
• Take notes on what you and the teacher will do to support your child.
• If you need more time to discuss, arrange another meeting.
• Ask the teacher about the best way to communicate with them.

After the Conference:

• Discuss what you learned with your child.
• Follow up with the teacher regarding your child’s development and the action plan created during the conference.