Benchmarks and Evaluation

Rigorous standards of achievement

Many school talk about “Academic rigor” and “high standards.” These words, however only become meaningful when connected to defined goals.

At Harlem Academy, our standards are based on a single goal is for each student: to attain the level of academic achievement and character development required to enter and thrive at top secondary schools.

To achieve this goal, the school has established a series of benchmarks for each grade level. These benchmarks build logically from the previous year’s learning and set the foundation for the next level of academic development.

 Monitoring progress through comprehensive assessment

Regular evaluation helps Harlem Academy pinpoint strengths and areas to improve for both students and instruction methods. Pre- and post- unit testing, vocabulary quizzes, class participation, and evaluation of culminating performances are all measures that teachers use to monitor student progress towards curriculum mastery.

In addition to testing of academic achievement, we provide ongoing assessment of student character development, contribution to the school community, effort, attitude, extra-curricular achievement, and attendance.

Harlem Academy is also a member of the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) and uses their tests as an annual standardized measure of individual student and school-wide progress.

Students, teachers, and families deserve a full and detailed understanding of their progress. Our commitment to testing and evaluation helps us provide this understanding fairly, consistently, and accurately.

When I read a teacher’s narrative report, I know that they know my child. They are written with such thoughtfulness and insight.

Jacqueline Gaines, Parent

Clearly defined standards measure academic progress and ensure accountability in achieving student goals.