Retention

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Retention
By Helen

In our district retention is based on assessments done all during the year. We give a math assessment every nine weeks. We take writing samples at least three times during the year, keep a portfolio of the student's work
and scores.
We assess recognition of the Basic 100 Sight Words at the beginning middle and end of the school year. We use benchmark books to assess reading levels at least twice a year and more if needed.
The rubric on our report cards (core courses) reads: 4 Consistently performs Well above grade level 3 Consistently performs on grade level 2 Sometimes performs on grade level

1 Not yet on grade level
To be promoted a student must make mostly 2's and 3's with more 3's. S/he must pass 4 out of the five core courses and one of the four must be reading.
If a child has been retained once during a four year cycle s/he cannot be retained again in that cycle. Ex. If repeated Kindergarten, cannot repeat again until fourth grade. We also have EOG tests that must be passed in Grades 3, 5, 8 etc.
They are also scored 1,2,3,4, A 2 can let you be promoted but you are on alert that you must bring your score up the next year or be retained.
We are required to notify our principal of the assessed levels of our students in the fall and again at mid-semester. We also notify their parents. First graders should be reading at least on a 1.7 reading level before being promoted. We do have provisions for placing students who have had previous retentions or who may not benefit from retention, or who in teacher judgement, may catch up...late bloomers etc. Hope I didn't give you more than you wanted.