Graduation Guides by Grade
View information and recommendations for your student’s educational progress at each grade level by clicking on your student’s grade below.
Welcome to Parents’ Guide to Graduation
View information and recommendations for your student’s educational progress at each grade level by clicking on your student’s grade to the left. You can download the full guide by clicking below.
Download Parents’ Guide to Graduation: All Grades
Kindergarten: Guide to Graduation
Kindergarten is a proven way to set your child on the path to academic success!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
Download Parents’ Guide to Graduation for Kindergarten
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate.
These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
2
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
You can learn more about state standards in our “about the standards” section.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of Kindergarten Readers:
- Shows an interest in books
- Responds to printed words
- Knows sounds and letters
- Begins to use reading strategies
- Develops reading strategies
Math Foundations
Characteristics of Kindergarten Mathematics:
- Knows number names and count sequence to 20
- Counts to tell the number of objects
- Compares numbers
- Represents addition and subtraction within 10
- Works with numbers 11-19 to gain foundations for place value
- Classifies, creates, analyzes and compares shapes
How can I help my kindergarten student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your student up for success in school from home.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for schoolwork and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils. - Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school, especially while in comprehensive distance learning.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school are critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
First Grade: Guide to Graduation
Your child is making strides toward high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
Download Parents Guide to Graduation for First Grade
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. Beginning in preschool, students start learning importance structure, which will be critical to build strong foundational learning skills.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
Ongoing assessments
In kindergarten through second grade, teachers continually evaluate student work to gauge progress toward standards. This is called “ongoing assessment.”
Older students (grades 3–8 and 11th grade) take annual state tests in reading, writing and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. (These tests provide the Oregon Department of Education with information on how well schools are helping students reach state standards.
Teachers in these higher grades use state test information, ongoing assessment and other measures to help them gauge student learning. In future grades, parents can also use state test scores as one way to know how their students are doing.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of first grade readers:
- Recognizes the features of a sentence (Ex. first words, capitalization)
- Recognizes the spelling and sounds of two letters that represent one sound
- Reads one-syllable words
- Reads grade-level words with irregular spelling
- Uses strategies to read multisyllabic words
- Talks about and answers questions about a te
Math Foundations
Characteristics of first grade mathematics:
- Represents and solves addition and subtraction problems using various strategies
- Adds and subtracts within 20
- Uses place value understanding and properties of operations to add and subtract
- Measures lengths directly and indirectly
- Tells and writes time in hours and half-hours
- Represents and interprets data to solve problems
- Reasons with shapes and their attributes
How can I help my first grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for schoolwork and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils. - Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school, especially while in comprehensive distance learning.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
Second Grade: Guide to Graduation
Your child is making strides toward high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
Download Parents Guide to Graduation for Second Grade
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
Ongoing assessments
In kindergarten through second grade, teachers continually evaluate student work to gauge progress toward standards. This is called “ongoing assessment.”
Older students (grades 3–8 and 11th grade) take annual state tests in reading, writing and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. (These tests provide the Oregon Department of Education with information on how well schools are helping students reach state standards.
Teachers in these higher grades use state test information, ongoing assessment and other measures to help them gauge student learning. In future grades, parents can also use state test scores as one way to know how their students are doing.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
You can learn more about state standards in our “about the standards” section.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of Second Grade Readers:
- Distinguishes long/short sounds in one-syllable words
- Knows spelling sounds of common teams
- Decodes regularly spelled two-syllable words with common prefixes and suffixes and grade-appropriate irregularly spelled words
- Retells stories and identifies the main topic, central message, lesson or moral using key details from text
- Compare and contrasts texts of similar topics or different versions.
- Uses context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary
Math Foundations
Characteristics of second grade Mathematics:
- Represents and solves addition and subtraction problems within 100
- Works with equal groups to gain foundations for multiplication
- Understands place value within 1,000 and uses this to add and subtract within 1,000
- Measures and estimates lengths in standard units
- Solves addition and subtraction problems involving length, money and time
- Represents and interprets data on graphs (using measurement)
- Reasons with shapes and attributes
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
How can I help my second grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your student up for success in school from home.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for schoolwork and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
- Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils.
- Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school, especially while in comprehensive distance learning.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
Third Grade: Guide to Graduation
Your child is making strides toward high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
What is my child learning in third grade?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of Third Grade Readers:
- Determines main ideas of nonfiction texts
- Retells the central message, lesson, moral and main idea of text
- Uses context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary
- Uses strategies to read multisyllabic words with common Latin suffixes and unknown words
- Asks and answers questions about the texts they read using appropriate terminology
Math Foundations
Characteristics of Third Grade Mathematics:
- Represents and solves addition and subtraction problems within 100
- Solves problems involving the four operations
- Uses place value understanding and properties of operations to perform multi-digit arithmetic to 100
- Develops an understanding of fractions as numbers and represents them on number lines
- Solves problems in measurement, time, liquid volume, mass and using graphs
- Understands concepts of area and perimeter
- Reasons with shapes and their attributes (focus on quadrilaterals)
How is my child doing in third grade?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
State Tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
How can I help my third grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for schoolwork and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
- Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils.
- Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school, especially while in comprehensive distance learning.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
Fourth Grade: Guide to Graduation
Your child is making strides toward high school graduation! Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
State Tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of Fourth Grade Readers:
- Knows and applies all letter-sound correspondences, syllabication patterns and morphology in and out of context
- Reads unfamiliar multisyllabic words • Uses context to confirm or self-correct word recognition and understanding, rereading as necessary
- Uses evidence to explain the main idea, theme, characters, setting and main event of a text
- Summarizes the text using the main idea and supporting details
- Compares and contrasts point of view
Math Foundations
Characteristics of Fourth Grade Mathematics:
- Uses the four operations with whole numbers to solve problems
- Gains familiarity with factors and multiples
- Uses place value and properties of operations to perform multi-digit arithmetic
- Extends understanding of fraction equivalence and ordering
- Adds and subtracts fractions, multiplies fractions and whole numbers
- Understands decimal notation for fractions and compares fractions
- Solves problems using conversions within one measurement system
- Draws, measures, classifies and identifies lines and angles
How can I help my fourth grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success.There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
- Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils.
- Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Elementary school is the time when students form a foundation of skills and knowledge they will build on year after year. Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
Fifth Grade: Guide to Graduation
Your child is making strides toward high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation.
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of elementary students receive three progress reports (report cards) each year. Salem-Keizer’s elementary schools use a proficiency grading system, which means grades reflect the student’s progress toward mastering a standard. Grades are reported on a scale of one to four. A score of three means the student meets grade level standards, or is proficient.
You can learn more about proficiency grading below:
*Video created when Marc Morris was principal as Eyre Elementary. Principal Morris now leads Grant Community School.
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you a little about my child.”
Share information with the teacher about your child’s habits, likes and dislikes, special interests or anything that will help the teacher know your child better.
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
State Tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
Learning to Read and Write
Characteristics of Fifth Grade Readers:
- Uses combined knowledge of all letter-sound correspondences, syllabication patterns and morphology to read accurately unfamiliar multisyllabic words in context and out of context
- Uses context to confirm or self-correct word recognition ad understanding, rereading as necessary
- Determines two or more main ideas in a text or theme of a story using key details
- Using specific details compares and contrasts two or more characters, settings, or events
- Integrates information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about a subject knowledgeably
Math Foundations
Characteristics of Fifth Grade Mathematics:
- Writes and interprets numerical expressions using symbols
- Understands place value relationships through thousandths
- Performs operations with multi-digit whole numbers to decimals in the hundredths
- Adds, subtracts, multiplies and divides fractions and/or whole numbers
- Converts measurements with a given system to solve multistep problems
- Understands concepts of volume and relates volume to multiplication and addition
- Graphs points on the coordinate plane to solve real-world and mathematical problems
- Classifies two-dimensional figures into categories based on their properties
How can I help my fifth grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Demonstrate a positive attitude about school. Your children will model your attitude.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework and minimize distractions (turn off the TV and video games).
- Make sure there are supplies like paper and pencils.
- Read non-fiction books with your child, and talk about what’s happening in the books.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your child about different jobs people do, and what skills are needed.
- Ask your child to solve simple math problems of everyday life like figuring correct change.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible. Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
High school graduation is several years away, but most parents remark that the time passes quickly! Early recognition that graduation is important to your child’s future, and that he or she needs your support to reach graduation, is crucial.
Elementary school is the time when students form a foundation of skills and knowledge they will build on year after year. Help your child have a smooth path to graduation by helping them stay on track all the way through school to graduation. This means making sure they are meeting standards at each grade level.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
Sixth Grade: Guide to Graduation
Believe it or not, your child is halfway to high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move up each grade. This guide will point you to answers as you help your student reach graduation!
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive
supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of middle school students will receive a progress report every six weeks. Final semester grades are sent home at the end of each semester – midyear (late in
January) and at the end of the school year (June). Salem-Keizer middle schools currently use a letter grade scale (A to F).
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for a teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teachers’ perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teachers by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
ParentVUE
Parents can find their student’s current grades, class schedule, attendance and assignment information through this online tool. Attendance information is updated daily. Please contact your school to activate your ParentVUE account.
4
State tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, math and science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and results are sent home around the end of summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering state standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
English Language Arts (ELA)
(Includes reading, writing, language, speaking and listening)
- Quote evidence that supports what the student thinks a text is saying both directly and indirectly.
- Determine a theme or central idea by particular details and provide an objective summary.
- Write arguments to support opinions and include clear reasons.
Social Sciences
Study focuses on the ancient civilizations of the Western Hemisphere and includes the exploration of:
- What is civilization?
- How do physical and human characteristics of places and regions relate to identities and cultures?\
- What remains of ancient civilizations and cultures today?
Science
- Plan an investigation to determine the relationships among the energy, matter, mass and change of kinetic energy.
- Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
- Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells. Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell and the ways the parts of cells contribute to its function
Mathematics
- Understand ratio concepts and use that understanding to solve math problems.
- Develop an understanding of how math phrases can be written as algebraic expressions. For example, “A number plus one equals five,” becomes, “X + 1 = 5.”
- Solve real-world math problems involving area, surface area and volume.
How can I help my sixth grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning in school.
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework, and make sure there are enough supplies like paper and pencils.
- Encourage your student to read every day.
- Encourage writing at home. Write together, and include details.
- Talk with your student about going to college and about different careers.
- Help your student build study habits by reviewing due dates for homework and project schedules.
- Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible.
- Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
It may seem strange to think about high school graduation now. But, middle school is when students begin forming thoughts and feelings about their future after high school and in adulthood. Set your student up to reach graduation is by making they are regularly attending school and meeting standards.
**Some students may need extra time or support to achieve high school graduation requirements. Schools are prepared to support students’ unique learning needs.
Here are the things members of the class of 2019 accomplished in order to receive their diplomas:
1. Earned a total of 24 high school credits in the classes shown here. One credit equals one full year (or 2 semesters/4quarters) of class with a passing grade:
- English, 4 credits
- Math, 3 credits
- Science, 3 credits
- Social Studies, 3 credits
- P.E., 1 credit
- Health, 1 credit
- Second Language, Arts or Career-Tech, 3 credits
- Other electives, 6 credits
2. Demonstrated they have “essential skills” as defined by the state. Students proved they have these skills through state tests or other approved tests (such as PSAT, SAT, ACT or WorkKeys) or by providing work samples.
3. Completed career-planning activities.
Seventh Grade: Guide to Graduation
Believe it or not, your child is halfway to high school graduation!
Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move up each grade. This guide will point you to answers as you help your student reach graduation!
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of high school students will receive a progress report every six weeks. Final semester grades are sent home at the end of each semester – midyear (late in
January) and at the end of the school year (June). Salem-Keizer high schools currently use a letter grade scale (A to F).
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
ParentVUE
Parents can find their student’s current grades, class schedule, attendance and assignment information through this online tool. Attendance information is updated daily. Please contact your school to activate your ParentVUE account.
4
State tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners) and others. . To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
English Language Arts (ELA)
(Writing standards)
- Develop the topic with relevant facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples.
- Use appropriate transitions to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts.
- Provide a concluding statement or section that follows and supports the information or explanation presented.
Social Sciences
Study focuses on the formation of contemporary cultures and societies of the Eastern Hemisphere and includes the exploration of:
- What is culture, and how is culture formed?
- What forces impact/change culture?
- How do groups become marginalized?
Science
- Develop and use a model to describe how the total number of atoms does not change in a chemical reaction and thus mass is conserved.
- Develop a model to describe how chemical reactions form new molecules that support growth and/or release energy as food matter moves through an organism.
- Construct an explanation that predicts patterns of interactions among organisms across multiple ecosystems.
- Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
Mathematics
- Understand proportions and use them to solve real-world math problems.
- Add, subtract, multiply and divide positive and negative numbers.
- Solve real-life math problems using algebra equations.
How can I help my seventh grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your child up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Make education a family value.
- Understand graduation requirements.
- Talk with your student about going on to college and about different careers.
- Contact your student’s counselor to learn about scholarship resources and college application deadlines.
- Have a comfortable place set up at home for schoolwork, and make sure there are enough supplies such as paper and pencils.
- Help your student build and maintain study habits by reviewing homework assignment due dates and schedules. Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning in school (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework, and make sure there are enough supplies like paper
and pencils. - Check your student’s planner or agenda every day. • Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible.
- Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
It may seem strange to think about high school graduation now. But, middle school is when students begin forming thoughts and feelings about their future after high school. The best way to set your student up to reach graduation is to make sure he or she is regularly attending school and meeting standards every year.
Here are the things members of the class of 2019 accomplished in order to receive their diplomas:
1. Earned a total of 24 high school credits in the classes shown here. One credit equals one full year (or 2 semesters/4quarters) of class with a passing grade:
- English, 4 credits
- Math, 3 credits
- Science, 3 credits
- Social Studies, 3 credits
- P.E., 1 credit
- Health, 1 credit
- Second Language, Arts or Career-Tech, 3 credits
- Other electives, 6 credits
2. Demonstrated they have “essential skills” as defined by the state. Students proved they have these skills through state tests or other approved tests (such as PSAT, SAT, ACT or WorkKeys) or by providing work samples.
3. Completed career-planning activities.
Eighth Grade: Guide to Graduation
Believe it or not, your child is halfway to high school graduation! Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move up each grade. This guide will point you to answers as you help your student reach graduation!
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of high school students will receive a progress report every six weeks. Final semester grades are sent home at the end of each semester – midyear (late in
January) and at the end of the school year (June). Salem-Keizer high schools currently use a letter grade scale (A to F).
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
ParentVUE
Parents can find their student’s current grades, class schedule, attendance and assignment information through this online tool. Attendance information is updated daily. Please contact your school to activate your ParentVUE account.
4
State tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
** There are also standards for physical education, health education, art, English language acquisition (for English language learners)
and others. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
English Language Arts (ELA)
(Includes reading, writing, language, speaking and listening)
- Quote evidence that most strongly supports what a text is saying both directly and indirectly.
- Determine a theme or central idea; analyze the development over the course of the text, including its relationship to characters, setting, and plot; provide an objective summary.
- Write arguments to support claims with logical reasons and credible evidence, acknowledging and distinguishing the claim from alternate or opposing claims.
Social Sciences
Study focuses on the foundation of the United States of America and includes the exploration of:
- What are the foundational values of the U.S.?
- How do values influence society and vice versa?
- How does the government respond to pressures and shifting values?
Science
- Plan an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object’s motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and its mass.
- Develop & use a model of the earth-sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.
- Develop & use a model to describe why mutations to genes on chromosomes may affect proteins and may result in harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects.
Mathematics
- Solve linear equations and pairs of linear equations. For example, y = 2x – 2 and y = – x + 7.
- Use functions to illustrate relationships between numbers. A function describes what happens to a number (input) to produce an outcome (output). In f(x) = x2, the input is squared to get the output.
- Understand and use the Pythagorean Theorem (a2 + b2 = c2).
How can I help my eighth grade student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your student up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Make education a family value.
- Understand graduation requirements.
- Talk with your student about going on to college and about different careers.
- Contact your student’s counselor to learn about scholarship resources and college application deadlines.
- Have a comfortable place set up at home for schoolwork, and make sure there are enough supplies such as paper and pencils.
- Help your student build and maintain study habits by reviewing homework assignment due dates and schedules. Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning in school (reverse side).
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework, and make sure there are enough supplies like paper and pencils.
- Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible.
- Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
It may seem strange to think about high school graduation now. But, middle school is when students begin forming thoughts and feelings about their future after high school. The best way to set your student up to reach graduation is to make sure he or she is regularly attending school and meeting standards.
Here are the things members of the class of 2019 accomplished in order to receive their diplomas:
1. Earned a total of 24 high school credits in the classes shown here. One credit equals one full year (or 2 semesters/4quarters) of class with a passing grade:
- English, 4 credits
- Math, 3 credits
- Science, 3 credits
- Social Studies, 3 credits
- P.E., 1 credit
- Health, 1 credit
- Second Language, Arts or Career-Tech, 3 credits
- Other electives, 6 credits
2. Demonstrated they have “essential skills” as defined by the state. Students proved they have these skills through state tests or other approved tests (such as PSAT, SAT, ACT or WorkKeys) or by providing work samples.
3. Completed career-planning activities.
High School: Guide to Graduation
Graduation is almost here!
Parents are still needed to help their child on their path to graduation during this final stretch. Parents have common questions about achievement and instruction as students move through each grade. This guide will point you to answers to help your student reach graduation!
How is my child doing?
Staying engaged in your child’s education is critical. For many students, having their parents be active members in their education can help keep them on track to graduate. These are a few ways parents can stay involved in knowing how their child is doing in their classes and help their child receive supports needed to succeed.
1
Progress Reports
Parents of high school students will receive a progress report every six weeks. Final semester grades are sent home at the end of each semester – midyear (late in
January) and at the end of the school year (June). Salem-Keizer high schools currently use a letter grade scale (A to F).
2
Talk with your student’s teacher
The best way to know how your child is doing in school is to have a conversation with the teacher. As your child progresses through school all the way to graduation, you will find that the relationships you build with your child’s teachers are key to student success.
Email is often the fastest way to get in touch with teachers.
Remember–it’s important to attend parent-teacher conferences! Please take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with your child’s teacher.
Here are some phrases you could use to help you have conversations with your child’s teachers:
“I would like to tell you about some things that are going on at home.”
It can be helpful for the teacher to know if there’s a significant change at home. The arrival of a new baby, the loss of a family member or special pet, illness, divorce or any significant occurrence can be shared with your child’s teacher. Teachers will keep your personal information confidential, and it will help them better understand your child and their needs.
“How is my child doing socially and emotionally during class?”
It’s important for parents to hear the teacher’s perspective on how their child is getting along with others during online learning or while at school, and if they are happy and enjoying learning.
“What can I do to help?”
Become a partner with your child’s teacher by asking them for things you can do with your child to reinforce what they are teaching in class.
3
ParentVUE
Parents can find their student’s current grades, class schedule, attendance and assignment information through this online tool. Attendance information is updated daily. Please contact your school to activate your ParentVUE account.
4
State tests
Every year, Oregon students in grades 3–8 and 11th grade take state tests in reading, writing, and math. Grades 5-8 & 11 also take annual tests in science. The tests measure students’ knowledge of state standards, and give the Oregon Department of Education feedback about how schools are doing.
The state test for English language arts and math is called the Smarter Balanced Assessment. Students take the test in the spring, and the results are sent home around the end summer.
The Smarter Balanced Assessment was first used in our district in 2015, so it is still relatively new. Students will benefit from encouragement and practice to help them adjust to the new style of test.
After students have had more experience with the test, parents may choose to look at state test results as one way to gauge their student’s progress toward mastering grade-level standards.
What is my child learning?
State standards describe what Oregon students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. Standards progress in complexity every year as a child matures. They represent skills that build on each other year after year as a student advances through school.
High school standards aren’t always tied to one specific grade. To view all state standards for Oregon students, please visit the Oregon Department of
Education website.
English Language Arts (ELA)
High school ELA standards may sound similar to previous grades’ standards. The difference is that students continue to deepen skills by reading increasingly complex texts (both literature and informational) and refining writing skills.
- Cite strong evidence from a text to support analysis of what the text says, both explicitly and implied, and where the text leaves matters uncertain.
- Write informative/explanatory texts to describe complex ideas and information clearly and accurately.
- Conduct research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject.
Social Sciences
- Evaluate a historical source for point of view and historical context.
- Explain the responsibilities of citizens (e.g., vote, pay taxes).
- Explain the function of the stock market.
Science
- Use math to support the claim that atoms and mass are conserved during a chemical reaction.
- Using math, show how factors such as resources, climate, competition, etc., affect the number of living things ecosystems can support.
- Illustrate the lifespan of the sun and how energy is transferred from the sun’s core to the Earth.
Mathematics
Unlike earlier grades, high school math and science standards are organized around a concept instead of a grade level.
- Creating and solving equations with two or more variables.
- Explore various types of functions and their characteristics.
- Explore concepts of similarity, congruence, and trigonometry.
How can I help my high school student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success.There are many things you can do to help set your student up for success in school and for life after graduation.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Make education a family value.
- Understand graduation requirements.
- Talk with your student about going on to college and about different careers.
- Contact your student’s counselor to learn about scholarship resources and college application deadlines.
- Have a comfortable place set up at home for schoolwork, and make sure there are enough supplies such as paper and pencils.
- Help your student build and maintain study habits by reviewing homework assignment due dates and schedules.
- Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Know about the academic concepts your child is learning in school.
- Have a comfortable place set up for homework, and make sure there are enough supplies like paper and pencils.
- Check your student’s planner or agenda every day.
- Check your child’s online learning platform for homework and messages sent from school.
- Try your best to help your child attend live class sessions and actively participate where possible.
- Whether in comprehensive distance learning, or learning in-person in a physical school, regular engagement and participation in school is critically important, especially for young learners. Utilize ParentVUE to track student attendance, and encourage active participation in class activities each and every day.
What does it take to graduate?
High school is the time to focus on meeting graduation requirements. It’s important for students to stay on track in high school. If students fall behind in high school, it’s difficult to catch up—there’s little time to spare in a high school schedule.
*For information on diploma options, please contact your student’s counselor.
Here are the things members of the class of 2019 accomplished in order to receive their diplomas:
1. Earned a total of 24 high school credits in the classes shown here. One credit equals one full year (or 2 semesters/4quarters) of class with a passing grade:
- English, 4 credits
- Math, 3 credits
- Science, 3 credits
- Social Studies, 3 credits
- P.E., 1 credit
- Health, 1 credit
- Second Language, Arts or Career-Tech, 3 credits
- Other electives, 6 credits
2. Demonstrated they have “essential skills” as defined by the state. Students proved they have these skills through state tests or other approved tests (such as PSAT, SAT, ACT or WorkKeys) or by providing work samples.
3. Completed career-planning activities.
Community Transition Program: Guide to Graduation
Community Transition Programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of adult students with disabilities who have completed high school with a Modified or Extended Diploma or Certificate of Attainment.
What is my child learning?
Instruction is based on a student’s individual goals, and may include postsecondary or vocational education, integrated and/or supported employment, independent living, and community participation
Daily Living Skills
- Managing personal finances
- Caring for personal needs
- Managing a household
- Choosing and accessing public transportation
- Utilizing recreational facilities and engaging in leisure
- Demonstrating relationship responsibilities
- Buying, preparing and consuming food
- Buying and caring for clothing
Self Determination and Interpersonal Skills
- Understanding self-determination
- Being self-aware • Developing interpersonal skills
- Communicating with others
- Good decision making
- Developing social awareness
- Understanding disability rights and responsibilities
Employment Skills
- Knowing and exploring employment possibilities
- Exploring employment choices
- Seeking, securing and maintaining employment
- Exhibiting appropriate employment skills
What are the similarities and differences between CTPs and high schools?
CTPs are programs designed to specifically meet the needs of adult students in key areas related to their transition into the community.
Students are eligible for a community transition program if they:
- qualify for special education services;
- have completed four years of high school programming, and;
- have not earned a standard high school diploma.
Similarities
- IEPs are developed annually through the IEP team process
- CTPs follow the district calendar for secondary schools, with some minor differences
- Transportation may be provided (although we are always working towards independence in public transportation)
- Students participate in a graduation event when they “age” out at the end of the school year in which they turn 21
Differences
- Attendance is not mandatory, CTPs are choice programs
- The “classroom” is most frequently a community business, where students receive instruction in real-world skills
- No report cards or credits are generated–all progress is documented through Individualized Education Program (IEP)
- Days, times, and instruction are individually determined based on a student’s goals, interests, and needs
During these three years of transition planning, your CTP team will work diligently to connect your family with community and agency resources designed for
supporting adults experiencing disabilities.
1
Student
During these three years, the student is at the center of all programming and decision-making. Classroom instruction and community experiences are based on the student’s preferences, interests, needs, and strengths.
2
Vocational Rehabilitation
Many of our students in the CTPs qualify for vocational rehabilitation services. Vocational Rehabilitation is an agency designed to support individuals experiencing disabilities in finding and keeping paid, competitive employment in the community.
3
Marion & Polk County Developmental Disability Services
Some students qualify for ongoing services to support their independent living needs. Our CTPs work closely with the county offices to support collaboration and coordination of services between school and home to ensure consistent implementation of the IEP and ISP (Individual Support Plan).
4
Brokerages
Some adults eligible for DD Services elect to have services provided through a Support Services Brokerage to assist with living independently in the home.
Currently, Marion and Polk Counties have three local Support Service Brokerages, all of which are close partners with the CTPs in the transition planning process.
5
Providers
A number of agencies exist across Marion and Polk counties, all designed to support with ongoing individual needs around competitive employment, community engagement, and independent living. Your CTP team, along with your DD Service Coordinator or Brokerage Personal Agent, will help you and your family navigate these agencies to find what works best for you!
How can I help my CTP student at home?
As a parent or guardian, you are the most influential person in your child’s future success. There are many things you can do to help set your student up for success in life after the transition program.
Tips to prepare your child for graduation at home
- Encourage self-determination and self-advocacy
- If you believe your child may qualify for developmental disability services, or if you are unsure, talk with your high school case manager; eligibility for adult services is easier if the process is completed before the student turns 18
- Practice basic job interview questions for a job your child is interested in
- Talk as a family about what you hope your child’s life will look like after he or she leaves the community transition program, and share this at your annual IEP meeting
- Prepare your student to problem solve situations that may occur in community settings, as this is where he or she will be spending most of the day
- Communicate to your child that each day he or she is “going to work” rather than “going to school”