Rocky View Schools (RVS) board of trustees discussed the division’s move towards a no-zero policy, March 21.
Dave Morris, associate superintendent of learning for RVS, made the presentation, saying the discussion on a no-zero policy has been ongoing for several years. Morris said assessment of students’ work should separate effort and academic achievement.
“I think RVS has one of the progressive assessment policies in the province,” said Morris.
“(Effort and achievement) should be viewed equally. Part of learning is developing good attitudes and habits around their approach to learning. We just want teachers to pay attention to these efforts.”
According to Morris’ report, in Rocky View, many schools allow students to be reassessed, assign a “not handed in” instead of a zero for incomplete work, allow students to complete missed assignments, talk to caregivers about missed assignments, and refer students for extra help such as tutoring and learning support.
“Definitely schools approach the no-zero policy with a different level of commitment,” said Morris. “Some will give zeros on assignments, but some schools don’t do that.”
Trustee Bev LaPeare said both attitude and academic standing is important.
“When we look at real-world situations, it’s often the achievement that will land them the job, but it’s the attitude that will get them fired from that same job,” she said.
Superintendent of Schools Greg Bass said it is important to assess learners on their knowledge through more than test scores.
“No child knows nothing,” he said. “Can we have alternative ways for (students) to demonstrate their learning?”
Trustee Don Thomas said, while he agreed with the no-zero assessment model, universities base their admissions on academic achievement.
“We aren’t going to forget there is a competitive world out there and our students will be prepared,” he said.
For more information on RVS’ assessment policies, visit rockyview.ab.ca.
