Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Catholic School

Message from the Principal

Dear Parents,

You may hear from your children sometime this week that they took their “exams” in class at some point. You may also be wondering why you weren’t informed of this in advance so you could help them study for exams. It has been our practice for the past few years to approach End of the Year Examinations in a different manner, one which we believe is more beneficial to your child’s comprehensive education.

First, allow me to make a distinction: Performance Assessments are given in class and they count as a grade for the students. The P.A.’s, as they are called, are realistic applications of knowledge and allow the student to provide answers and solutions in a variety of ways; most importantly, whichever is most comfortable for them. Writing is an integral part of these P.A.’s. Most classes have completed the P.A.’s or are in the process of completing them.

We believe that cramming for exams only gives us a picture of what was “crammed for” and not an overall understanding. Additionally, we do not wish to add stress to the students. The examinations from the Archdiocese are administered by us, and graded, in order to assess areas of strengths and weaknesses. The grades are NOT recorded. Following the exams, the teachers will take a week to revisit areas in need of reinforcement and reteaching and focus on those needs. Following this complement to instruction, the teachers will re-assess students on those areas. If a class has demonstrated a command in a subject area, and does not need reteaching for that additional week, then the teacher will introduce material typically found at the next level.

The purpose of assessment should always be to drive instruction. It is our belief that this approach to end of the year testing will present a truer picture of strengths and weaknesses for both students and teachers alike.

Thank you. God Bless,

Mrs. Judge