Academic Assessment Performance Levels

Performance levels are used to classify student-performance into categories that describe knowledge, skills, and practices. The performance levels below indicate each student’s ability to demonstrate the specified traits of each category, including the consistency with which each student can demonstrate these traits.

ES = Exceeds the Standard

MS = Meets the Standard

AS = Approaching the Standard

NS = Needs Support

In certain cases, a Pass (P) or Fail (F) will be assigned.

Exceeds the Standard (ES)—A student at this performance level:

demonstrates a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of rigorous subject matter and provides sophisticated solutions to complex problems.
consistently exceeds grade level standards and expectations.
consistently demonstrates and applies a deeper understanding of the knowledge and skills expected at this grade level.
shows initiative, challenges himself/herself, and demonstrates advanced understanding.
demonstrates unusually high achievement and may perform beyond the grade-level standard.
Student-performance is characterized by self-motivation and the ability to apply the skills with consistent accuracy, independence and a high-level of quality.

Meets the Standard (MS)—Celebrated this performance level because a student:

demonstrates a solid understanding of challenging subject matter and solves a wide variety of problems.
consistently meets grade-level standards and expectations.
is “right on track” with our high academic expectations.
Student-performance is characterized by the ability to apply skills with accuracy and independence expected at this grade-level.

Approaching the Standard (AS) —A student at this performance level:

is progressing towards grade-level standards and expectations.
demonstrates a moderate understanding of the knowledge and skills expected at this grade-level.
is progressing in understanding, however, grade-level concepts and skills are not yet met.
requires additional practice and support in order to meet proficient levels of understanding.
needs intervention and continued support; struggles even with assistance.
Student-performance varies in consistency with regard to accuracy and quality.

Needs Support (NS)—A student at this performance level:

is making limited or no progress towards meeting grade-level standards and expectations.
demonstrates academic delays according to meeting the grade-level standards.
requires additional instruction, practice and targeted interventions. The student struggles even with additional interventions in order to move towards making some progress toward grade-level standards.