Standardized TestingEvery other year, students from Grades Three to Eight participate in The Canadian Tests of Basic Skills. These tests cover a wide range of skills -vocabulary, spelling, reading comprehension, language mechanics, map and graph reading, use of reference materials, math concepts, and problem solving. They have been standardized over a broad spectrum of Canadian students. The results show how a student may compare in their academic realm with other students across the country. These tests aid us in evaluating our curriculum. We use the results as a confirmation of our own assessment of the students. These are not used as a substitute for personal teacher evaluation and they play no role in decisions regarding student promotion. From time to time other standardized tests may be scheduled if they appear to the staff to be a profitable way of assessing the students’ abilities or achievements.
Some students may require more precise diagnostic testing. This may isolate or identify a learning challenge, or enable teachers to tailor their teaching methods more closely to the child’s learning profile. Some of these tests may be administered by the staff, but others need more specialized treatment. As we do not have the same resources available to us as do the public school boards, this sometimes means purchasing contract services. As a general rule, the school does not pay expenses connected with professional diagnostic help.
The school year will be divided into three terms or marking periods. The first term will end in late November, the second at March Break, and summer holidays will signal the completion of the third term. Report cards will be issued to the students on the last day of each term. Achievements are reported rather than just skills checklists.
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