Facts about marking plan

Re: “New marking system riles parents, students; Controversial grading model panned as being ‘too broad,’ ” the Journal, April 15. As superintendent of Battle River School Division, I am delighted and dismayed by recent attention to student assessment. I’m delighted, because I have never witnessed such passion expressed for education. But I’m dismayed the attention has included misinformation that overshadows reality. Here are some facts: The change to outcome-based assessment follows the direction of the government’s vision, Inspiring Education, and is not specific to our school division.

Every school division is responsible for creating a system to track student learning. Our division’s system includes outcome-based recording and a strong focus on descriptive feedback and makes students accountable to provide evidence of learning.

The target for high school implementation is fall 2014. Schools that aren’t ready will be given time and assistance.

Our division’s junior and senior high students will receive percentages on midterm and term-end report cards and upon request at any other time. Marks these students receive will accurately reflect learning.

The school division has received negative feedback but also messages of support from across the province. We are committed to working with stakeholders.

Students deserve the highest quality education. The way we assess assists aspiring youth to master the curriculum and be well prepared for the future.

This discussion is about ensuring students get what they need. Our school division remains committed to its vision of every student, every day, a success. Larry Payne, superintendent, Battle River School Division