Student Achievements Not Tracked By Student Achievement Data

Imagine measuring.......

As educators pour over data points, three areas of student achievement deserve consideration. 

Creativity: Imagine measuring the number of smiles produced when adults admire a painting, poem, musical performance, robot, or video game created by a student. We are all better when we give students the opportunity to imagine something that is not yet, but is better that what is. Though the creative process can be sloppy, the results are worth it.

Compassion: Imagine measuring the number of new students welcomed into a school by the existing student body. Our society is more mobile than ever. Every day schools have new students transfer into their family. More often than not these students have this difficult transition eased by compassionate students.

Persistence: Imagine measuring the number of assignments turned in after, or during, substantial setbacks in the life of a student. All teachers have students on their rosters who are experiencing trials. When these students fight through and continue to turn in work and study for tests, they demonstrate a persistence that serves them well.