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Elementary Standards-Based Report Cards

Why We Are Making This Change

Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, the WCASD will aligns with the PA State Standards by having all grades (K-5) using a Standards-Based Report Card (SBRC). The SBRC focuses on the student’s knowledge and skills mastered at each grade level. 

We have researched and discussed through committee work the best practices in standards-based reporting and found adopting a standards-based grading system will ensure:

Clearer Communication with Parents and Students:

  • Traditional report cards often use letter grades, which can be vague and subjective.
  • A standards-based report card provides specific feedback on students’ progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
  • Parents understand what their child knows and can do, rather than just seeing a single overall grade.

Focus on Mastery of Skills and Knowledge:

  • Emphasizes what students have actually learned, rather than averaging grades that may include non-academic factors (e.g., homework completion, effort, or participation).
  • Encourages a growth mindset, as students can see their progress toward proficiency rather than feeling defined by a single grade.

Aligns with Curriculum and Instruction:

  • WCASD follows state and national academic standards (e.g., Pennsylvania Core Standards).
  • SBRCs ensure grading practices are aligned with classroom instruction and assessments, making it easier to track student progress.

Reduces Subjectivity in Grading:

  • Traditional grading can be influenced by factors unrelated to learning (extra credit, late penalties, behavior).
  • SBRCs assess students only on their understanding of the standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Prepares Students for Future Success:

  • Helps students take ownership of their learning by understanding specific goals.
  • Aligns with grading models used in secondary schools, higher education, and even professional evaluations, where skills mastery is key.

Dr. Sara Missett, Director of Elementary Education, presented to the School Board in October 2024 the rationale of adopting a SBRC for all elementary grades. You may view the  Standards-Based Report Card Powerpoint Presentation or watch the recording from the School Board Presentation. In addition, we will continue to update this webpage with new information.