Assessment and Evaluation
In Ontario, assessment and evaluation are key parts of student learning from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Teachers use a variety of methods to understand how students are progressing, including observations, conversations, and student work.
For Kindergarten, assessment focuses on how children develop in key areas such as problem-solving, communication, and social skills. Instead of traditional grades, families receive progress reports that highlight their child's growth and learning experiences.
For Grades 1-12, assessment and evaluation are based on Ontario’s curriculum expectations. Students receive report cards that include grades or achievement levels, as well as feedback on learning skills such as responsibility and collaboration. Teachers assess students based on three key areas:
✅ Assessment for learning – Helps teachers plan lessons based on student needs.
✅ Assessment as learning – Encourages students to reflect on their own progress.
✅ Assessment of learning – Measures student achievement at key points, such as tests or final projects.
The goal of assessment is to support student success by providing clear feedback, recognizing strengths, and identifying areas for improvement. Families are encouraged to stay involved by discussing progress with teachers and supporting learning at home. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child's school!
Elementary
Elementary has 1 progress report and 2 term reports. PECI will often host a "Meet the Teacher" night for informal meetings and then a formal Guardian/Parent & Teacher night. Please follow the Panther Preview for dates and times.
Progress Report - mid November
Term 1 Report Card - mid/Late February
Term 2 Report Card - end of June
Secondary
At the beginning of each course the teacher will provide for the students a clear statement of the course content and course requirements, an explanation of evaluation methods and a marks breakdown, along with a description of the policy for tests and assignments. Students are expected to be active participants in their own learning by assuming responsibility for keeping work up to date and by regular communication with teachers and parents. The final examination or the culminating activity is an important part of every course. Performance is measured throughout the semester on a number of criteria depending on the nature of the course.
Reports are issued to all students three times in each semester.
Semester 1 Early Progress Report – mid October
Mid-Semester Report – mid November
Final Report -- Early February
Semester 2 Early Progress Report -- mid March
Mid-Semester Report -- mid April
Final Report -- Early July
Credit Alert Reports are issued to those students who may be in danger of failing a course. These reports are mailed one month before the end of the semester. We encourage parents to contact teachers at any time for up-to-date information.
All subjects will have a final culminating activity or an examination. Exams and final culminating activities are important opportunities for teachers to collect data about each student's performance. Students who miss an exam for any reason must make arrangements with the Principal well in advance of the scheduled date. Please note that in Semester 1, weather can be a factor. If busses are cancelled during the exam period, exams will be shifted. A series of cancellations will extend the exam period.
Parent / Teacher Interview Nights
Parent / Teacher Interview nights occur each semester after the Early Progress report is sent home. As well, parents are encouraged to call the school at any time to speak to a teacher or to set up an appointment. At Trenton Highschool, we believe that communication between the home and the school is an important ingredient for student success.
However, at any time please feel free to contact the classroom teacher to discuss the progress of your student. The staff directory in the "About Us" tab or call the school at 613.476.2196