Academics

We believe in celebrating the growth and achievements of all of our learners. In order to do this, we have begun using an assessment system in kindergarten that emphasizes our commitment to the growth and progress of our youngest learners. To make this learning visible and fun for students, we are introducing a digital badging system that helps track and celebrate the skills children are developing throughout the year. The badges represent a series of skills and concepts identified in the Pennsylvania State Kindergarten standards and by our Kindergarten teachers and administrators, which we embed in our daily teaching throughout the year. 

We know that every child is unique and develops at unique rates. Learners learn different skills at different rates. To celebrate each child’s unique strengths and needs, learners earn badges at their own pace, based on their individual strengths, needs, and developmental levels. 

You can help your child celebrate progress by tracking what they have accomplished and supporting them as they reach new goals. Learners will receive their badges digitally throughout the year. You will have access to your child’s personal online version of his/her “badge backpack." This process provides grown-ups (and learners) with detailed descriptions of each badge skill and the criteria learners must meet to earn the badge. 

Our goal is for learners to own their success and be able to speak to the skills they have learned. Badges are a concrete representation of the learning process that learners can visualize and comprehend. This digital system gives learners a clear way to understand and take ownership of their learning and gives you an effective way of being a part of their kindergarten year. 

In this “backpack” you will find badges in literacy, mathematics, foundational, and behavioral skills that your child can earn over the course of the year. These badges incorporate criteria and practice opportunities associated with each skill or concept that you can use to support your child. Our goal is for each learner to earn the badges that are appropriate for him or her at a rate that is developmentally appropriate for the individual learner. In order for you to monitor and support your child’s progress, look through your child’s online backpack as a family. This will help you understand your child’s progress toward badges and skills we are working on during the year. 

We look forward to celebrating your children’s progress all year long!