A: At the push of a button, parents are able to access their child’s grades and all the reasons behind the grades. These digital tools have both benefits and drawbacks, and managing them requires scheduling and patience.
First things first: if you don’t know how to access your child’s grades make sure to reach out to the teaching staff and request the necessary codes to access them. I believe Powerschool is widely used throughout the mid-Michigan region.
Remember, teachers need parents to partner in helping students stay on track academically. Whatever we think about grades, they are used as data to understand a student’s learning progress, skill mastery and assignment management. This is a definite benefit.
One significant challenge is understanding how to use grade information to motivate and support your child with staying on track.
Let’s start with scheduling. Checking the grade site every day can promote frustration and miscommunication. Teachers need time to update grades and students need time to complete assignments.
I recommend reviewing grades once a week with your child. This way, missed assignments won’t pile up and everyone is afforded the time needed to complete required tasks.
A primary goal of these tools is accountability. You can use technology to hold your child accountable for their education. Remember, patience goes a long way in developing a successful process.
Mrs. Pizzo
