Standards-Based Report Cards

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) uses a report card that is directly connected to the Common Core State Standards to better communicate what students are expected to learn at each grade level—and provide information about a student's work habits, behavior, and effort. 

As MPS works to improve teaching and learning for all students, we know that parents and families are our most valuable partners. This is especially true as the district continues to implement new, more rigorous standards for what every child should know and be able to do in each subject area and grade level. The Common Core State Standards, to which the MPS Comprehensive Literacy Plan and Comprehensive Math/Science Plan are aligned, set high expectations. Achieving these career- and college-ready standards requires continuous monitoring of progress and additional support targeted to those who need it.

Like teachers, parents need accurate and meaningful information about student strengths, challenges, and performance to better understand and support student learning. To that end, MPS developed a report card that is directly connected to the Common Core State Standards.

MPS began implementing the Standards-Based Report Card in 2010–11, and all schools now participate. This report card is different from report cards you might be used to, as students in kindergarten through grade eight do not receive a letter grade for each subject. (Note: Students in high school will still receive a letter grade for each subject, as well as a grade-point average and class rank.)

Standards-based report cards:

• Clarify and reinforce consistent, high expectations for students and schools
• Help teachers, students, and families focus on standards throughout the year
• Provide specific feedback on progress on the standards so that students, families, and teachers can work together to set meaningful goals for improvement

Additional support at home and school can reinforce the concepts and knowledge learned based on the information in these report cards. The following information is designed to help you better understand what you'll find in your child’s report card. Please contact their school if you have additional questions.

Family Guide to Grades and Report Cards

MPS is committed to keeping families informed and involved in their child’s learning. Our standards-based report cards (K–8) are designed to clearly show what students know and are able to do in each subject area. High school students earn letter grades and a cumulative grade-point average (GPA).

Viewing Grades and Progress

Families can view their child’s grades, attendance, and teacher feedback anytime through the Campus Parent Portal. Grades and progress reports are updated throughout the school year, and report cards are issued each grading period. If you need help accessing or using the Parent Portal, please contact your child’s school.

What the Grades Mean

Elementary and Middle School (Grades K–8)

Standards-based grading focuses on what students have learned rather than averaging test and homework scores. Instead of letter grades, students in grades K–8 receive marks that describe their level of understanding of grade-level standards.

K–8 Grade Scale:

• AD = Advanced
• PR = Proficient
• BA = Basic
• MI = Minimal

High School (Grades 9–12)

Students in grades 9–12 receive traditional letter grades, a grade-point average (GPA), and a class rank.

High School Grade Scale:

• A = 90% or higher
• B = 80%–89%
• C = 70%–79%
• D = 60%–69%
• U = Below 60%

When Grades Are Posted

Each school follows the district’s grading and reporting calendar. Report cards are typically shared at the end of each quarter, trimester, or semester, and interim progress reports are issued mid-term.

Grade Reporting Windows

End Date: This is the last opportunity for your student to complete and submit evidence of their proficiency. 
Teacher Reporting Window: This window is for teachers to finalize scores in their grade books and post grades to your student’s permanent record. 
Principal Review: This window provides principals and administrators with the opportunity to review report cards and request teacher corrections if needed. 
Report Card Distribution: Report cards will be available at the end of the grade reporting window timeline/process.

Supporting Your Child at Home

1. Review your child’s grades and teacher comments regularly in the Campus Parent Portal.

2. Talk with your child about what they’re learning and areas for growth.
3. Attend parent-teacher conferences to discuss progress and ways to support learning at home.

If you have questions about your child’s grades or report card, please contact their teacher or school directly.