We will have many conversations about assessment at NMHS – with students, parents/ guardians, and teachers. These conversations will be important so that we broaden our understanding of assessment as essential for learning, growth, and future goals not just marks; assessment happens daily during class time and throughout the year as well as during report card time.

Outcomes 

Statements from the programs of study that describe what you are expected to know and be able to do in a subject.

Competencies 

Interrelated attitudes/skills/knowledge that are demonstrated through the outcomes, present in the front part of the programs of study and essential for exemplary success in the discipline in school and in the world – collaboration, problem solving, global understanding are examples.

Students can expect to complete a variety of tasks to show what they know, including artefacts, assignments, exams, presentations, projects, quizzes, self-assessments. Teachers will also assess through conversations about and observations of learning. Some tasks will be part of ongoing, formative feedback to determine next steps for learning. Some tasks will be summative and compare student achievement against what is required. The teacher will give feedback. On report cards students will see both percentages (as required by Alberta Education) and comments.
Students, teachers and parents should visit PowerSchool and D2L regularly. See the links on school webpage or contact the main office for assistance.

Please note that attention to due dates is a competency that can help students achieve exemplary achievement. While teachers will communicate a “window of opportunity” for task completion, incomplete tasks will impact student success. Success Time and other opportunities arranged in discussion with teachers will help students stay current and on track.

You can expect to complete a variety of tasks to show what you know, including artefacts, assignments, exams, presentations, projects, quizzes, self-assessments. Teachers will also assess through conversations about and observations of your learning. Some tasks will be part of ongoing, formative feedback to determine next steps for learning. Some tasks will be summative and compare your achievement against what is required. The teacher will give you feedback. On report cards you will see both percentages (as required by Alberta Education) and comments. Students, teachers and parents should visit the teachers’ learning management systems regularly – for example, D2L or Home Logic. 

There will be learning management system tutorials at our conferences and “Meet the Staff” evenings. You can also contact the classroom teacher or the school office for assistance.

Please note that attention to due dates is a competency that can help you achieve exemplary achievement. While teachers will communicate a “window of opportunity” for task completion, incomplete tasks will impact your success. Success Time and other opportunities arranged in discussion with your teachers will help you stay current and on track.

Report Card Dates

Semester 1 Report Cards go home on February 2nd.

Semester 2 Report Cards go home on June 27th.

Assessment Schedule

It should be noted that assessment is an on-going process that happens throughout the course and not just during the scheduled assessment times. Assessment, Demand and Tutorial times are another opportunity for students to learn and show their mastery of outcomes/competencies and practice their skills such as test taking, timed responses or the analysis/synthesis of complex ideas.

Students that are in need of Credit Recovery or additional instruction may have Demand Times or mandatory attendance assigned during the Assessment Schedule. This will be communicated with students and parents.

Iris

Iris is the web-based teaching and learning application consisting of student learning plans, learner profiles, resource library and teacher and administrator workspaces. Iris brings together student voice, learning data and supports such as IPPs, and best research in supporting teachers and administrators in making well-informed instructional decisions for each student. 

The “student learning plan” is the primary space for students to be able to document and articulate personal learning processes. Iris supports students in developing and communicating their ongoing understandings as a learner, creating goals and exploring strategies that will enable them to be successful in their learning.

Mark Appeals Procedure

If a final course mark calculation error is made, there is a mark appeal opportunity at the end of each semester. In the event that there is an appeal the following process is used:

• Appeal directly to the teacher concerned;
• If the matter is not resolved with the teacher, the appeal may be taken to the Assistant Principal who will involve the parties concerned; 
• If the appeal is still not resolved, the Principal, after consultation with the people concerned, will make the final decision.