Middle school report cards: pain and pleasure

Well, the two monkeys got their first report cards last week from the first quarter of the year.  While grades are better than ever (all As and Bs), it's disheartening to read comments and criticisms on report cards.

Our school is piloting a supplement to our childrens' report cards, giving parents a bit more information about their student's academic progress in terms of where the student is meeting or exceeding standards or needs improvement. A step in the right direction, for sure, but what if the report card comments don't reflect the whole picture?

When will public schools learn that positive reinforcement works far more effectively than report cards and vague neutral comments? Why do we treat students like cattle, preferring to applaud their ability to move into a box (standards) than their uniqueness - what makes them special, and what will make them stand out one day in their chosen career? Why is it difficult for the public school system to build up our kids, find creative ways to launch future innovators: scientists, artists, environmentalists and - yes - teachers?

Comment below with your thoughts on report cards and what you think about how schools can celebrate differences and measure success in ways beyond a child's ability to conform to standards.