Beyond Grades: Transforming Assessment to Empower Student Learning

Tuesdays – January 13, 27 and February 10 4:00-5:30 PM

This three-part series challenges educators to reimagine assessment practices that better support learning and student growth. Led by renowned educator Starr Sackstein, participants will explore the historical and psychological impacts of traditional grading, discover the power of peer and self-assessment, and gain actionable strategies to implement alternative models like standards-based grading, portfolios, and feedback-driven instruction. Through reflection, practical tools, and real-world examples, this series empowers educators to create more equitable, student-centered classrooms where assessment becomes a tool for learning, not just evaluation.

Session 1: Rethinking Assessment: Why Traditional Grading Fails Students

• The historical context of grading
• Research on grading’s impact on motivation and learning
• The case for shifting toward feedback-driven assessment
• Takeaways for Participants:
• • Self-reflection activity: Evaluate current grading practices.
  • Research-based insights on grading’s impact on student motivation.
  • Strategies to initiate discussions with stakeholders (parents, administrators).

Session 2: Empowering Students: The Role of Peer Feedback in Learning

• How to build a culture of constructive peer assessment
• Strategies for training students to give meaningful feedback
• Balancing teacher, peer, and self-assessment
• Takeaways for Participants
• • Step-by-step guide for implementing peer feedback routines.
  • Examples of effective student feedback models.
  • Digital and analog tools for structuring peer review.
  • Techniques for coaching students to give high-quality feedback.

Session 3: Making the Shift: Practical Steps to Transform Assessment in Your Classroom

• Alternative grading models (standards-based, portfolios, contract grading, etc.)
• Overcoming challenges and resistance
• Tools and strategies for implementation
• Takeaways for Participants
• • Overview of alternative grading models (e.g., self-assessment, portfolios, contract grading).
  • Sample templates and rubrics for qualitative feedback.
  • Case studies of schools/teachers successfully implementing these strategies.

Cost:

Contact nysascd.director@gmail.com with questions or to pay by Purchase Order.

All attendees will receive a year membership to NYS ASCD.