How do you share student assessment data with parents?

2 Choose the method

Next, you need to choose the best method to share the assessment data with parents. Depending on the type and purpose of the data, you may opt for different methods, such as email, phone call, report card, portfolio, or conference. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider factors such as timeliness, privacy, feedback, and engagement. For example, email is quick and convenient, but it may not convey tone or emotion well. Phone call is more personal and interactive, but it may not allow parents to see the data visually. Report card is formal and standardized, but it may not capture the whole picture of the student's learning. Portfolio is comprehensive and authentic, but it may require more time and effort to prepare and review. Conference is collaborative and respectful, but it may be difficult to schedule and manage.

3 Communicate the purpose

When you share the assessment data with parents, you need to communicate the purpose of the data clearly and explicitly. This means explaining why you collected the data, how you used the data, and what you want the parents to do with the data. You also need to communicate the purpose of the assessment itself, such as whether it was formative or summative, diagnostic or evaluative, norm-referenced or criterion-referenced. By communicating the purpose, you can help parents understand the value and meaning of the data, and avoid misunderstandings or misconceptions.

4 Focus on the learning

Another tip to share the assessment data with parents is to focus on the learning, not just the scores or grades. This means emphasizing the student's progress, growth, and achievements, rather than their weaknesses, gaps, or failures. It also means highlighting the student's skills, strategies, and attitudes, rather than their knowledge, facts, or content. By focusing on the learning, you can foster a positive and constructive mindset in both the student and the parent, and encourage them to celebrate the student's efforts and accomplishments.

5 Involve the student

One of the best ways to share the assessment data with parents is to involve the student in the process. This means giving the student a voice and a choice in how they present and discuss their data with their parents. It also means supporting the student to reflect on their data, set their own goals, and plan their next steps. By involving the student, you can empower them to take ownership and responsibility for their learning, and enhance their self-awareness and self-regulation. You can also create a more authentic and meaningful dialogue between the student, the parent, and yourself.

6 Seek feedback

The last tip to share the assessment data with parents is to seek feedback from them. This means asking them for their opinions, questions, concerns, or suggestions about the data and the assessment. It also means listening to them actively and respectfully, and addressing their needs and expectations. By seeking feedback, you can show that you value and respect the parents' perspectives and insights, and that you are open and willing to work with them as partners in their child's education.