Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. What do the grades "O", "S", "P", and "N" mean on a report card?
2. Who may join choir?
3. My child doesn't play an instrument or sing. Can they still earn a good grade?
4. My child struggles in music class. What can be done?
5. What is your homework grading policy?
6. How can I know about my child's progress in music class?
7. What is the best/fastest way to contact you?

What do the grades "O", "S", "P", and "N" mean on a report card?

"O" stands for outstanding achievement.  This grade is reserved for those 
students who exceed grade level requirements/ability.  Very few should fall 
into this category.

"S" stands for secure ability.  This grade is for those students who show a 
solid grasp of the material at an appropriate grade level.  Many students 
will fall into this category.

"P" means progressing.  This grade is for students who display a movement 
toward understanding.  This student is performing sometimes at grade level 
and sometimes below grade level, yet still shows some progress in learning.  
Quite a few students will fall into this category.

"N" means that a student is lacking progression towards the musical goal.  
This grade is given in extremely rare instances.

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Who may join choir?

ANY student in grades 6,7, or 8 may join choir REGARDLESS OF VOCAL ABILITY.  
Those who follow the choir guidelines may continue to be a member of choir.

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My child doesn't play an instrument or sing. Can they still earn a good grade?

ANY child who puts forth effort, participates, and tries activities in music 
class can earn a good grade.  I believe that music education can be 
accessible for ALL students.

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My child struggles in music class. What can be done?

Have your child talk to me.  We will make a time to get together for extra 
help or to clear up any questions he/she might have.

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What is your homework grading policy?

On time work receives full credit.  Late work will be docked by 10%.  Either 
way, I simply want all work turned in.

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How can I know about my child's progress in music class?

First of all, talk to your student frequently about his/her progress.  For 
grades 6,7, and 8...WEBGRADER.  I keep very current on the middle school 
assignments, performances, projects, and tests.  Parents of students in 
grades K-5 will be contacted in cases where an "N" may be a resulting 
quarter grade.  ANY parent or ANY student may contact me to get updated 
information ANY time.

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What is the best/fastest way to contact you?

E-mail.  I am an e-mail fanatic!  If you want a quick response to a fairly 
easy question, e-mail me and I will get back to you like wildfire.  If your 
question is more in-depth or sensitive, e-mail me to set a time to meet.

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