Strong Beginnings

What is Strong Beginnings?

It is an assessment process designed to enhance assessment and planning, which begins in all classrooms on the first day of school and continues throughout the year. The Strong Beginnings assessments are not tests and therefore will not be graded.They are assessments to determine the level at which each student is working so that the teacher can provide appropriate instruction to promote learning and academic growth.

How does Strong Beginnings work?

On either Friday, September 14th or Monday, September 17th, each student from Kindergarten to Grade 9 will attend school by appointment for 60-90 minutes to participate in assessment activities in English Language Arts, Mathematics and Français, if applicable. (Details about each student's appointment time and the assessment process will be provided by the school.)

During this time, they will meet individually or in small groups with their teacher. This is an opportunity for teachers to gather data about each student's learning that may not be evident during whole class assessment activities. It is also a chance to further build a positive student-teacher relationship.

What will teachers learn through Strong Beginnings?

Teachers working with their students in an atmosphere of support and encouragement will collect firsthand information on each of the students about:

• how they learn;
• the learning strategies they possess and their approach to problem solving;
• their reading, writing and mathematical skills;
• their attitudes toward school and learning;
• their confidence as learners.

How will the assessment information be used?

• To set goals for learning. Typically, information about your child is shared at conference time; however, if there is a need for specialized instruction, parents are contacted early in the fall term.
• To enhance teachers' instructional planning.
• To improve curriculum implementation.

If you have any questions or require further information
please feel free to call us.