Recently a friend of mine who teaches jr. high was told at a staff meeting, each teacher is expected to write 3 full paragraphs (3/4 of a page) about each student. The comments should be "meaningful" and explain in detail where the child is in terms of grade level, how they are being taught and exactly what the teacher is going to do to help the child improve.
Most Jr. High schools have 40 minute classes, 4 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. The class size is somewhere between 20 and 30. So if we do the math, 8 classes of say 25 students per class is 200 report cards. 200 x 0.75 of a page = about 150 pages.
150 pages is a small novel and not easy writing either. The teacher must choose their words carefully, to communicate clearly and not offend or upset the parent. If there is a spelling error or a typo, it will be pointed out. Teachers are expected to complete report cards in a few days of time (while continuing to teach every day all day long). This is only one of four report cards done in the year. By the end of the year the teacher will have written 600 pages worth of report card comments.
I have to assume the parent with a student at this school will get several pages of comments. My only hope is they will have the time in their hectic schedules to sit down and read every word care and carefully reflect upon their child education.
As a parent I am happy with 65 per cent and "good effort" on my kids report card. If I am really concerned with my child's education, I can pick up the phone or go to the school and "talk" to my kids teacher.
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