VOICES

October is a busy yet meaningful month for teachers as they prepare for an important part of each student’s learning journey- the mid-year goal setting and feedback. More than simply looking at academic progress, it is an opportunity for teachers and parents to come together, reflect on each child’s growth, and identify ways to collaborate and provide meaningful support for continued student success.

Throughout the first half of the school year, teachers spend time getting to know their students. They observe students in all aspects of their school life- academic, socio-emotional relations and development, behavior, and other life skills. These everyday experiences offer valuable insights into how a child approaches learning. What makes them curious? How do they collaborate with others? When do they confidently share their ideas? What skills do they use when something does not go as planned? How do they work through a challenge? These observations help teachers see both students' progress and where they can grow and receive support next.

During the mid-semester feedback and goal setting, teachers and parents reflect together on the child’s learning and development. Teachers share these insights with parents, highlighting strengths, providing thoughtful feedback, and identifying areas that may need further support. Parents, in turn, gain a clearer picture of their child’s progress. As it is a partnership with parents in Keys, families also play an important role in supporting the child at home. Their observations, questions, and experiences deepen our understanding of the whole child. Together, home and school identify areas for continued growth and set meaningful goals for the remainder of the school year.

Because the school values the holistic growth of its students, goals are not only academically driven but also focus on skill-building and socio-emotional development. Goals may also look like strategies that support students in becoming increasingly capable learners who communicate their thinking effectively, ask deeper questions, persevere when situations are challenging, or become more confident in decision-making. 

Feedback is not simply given at the end. It is part of the process that helps parents and students to reflect, adjust, and move learning forward. Rather than setting the same expectations for every student, goal setting in Keys recognizes that growth looks different for every child. What matters most is how students are moving forward with agency and awareness of what they are capable of doing.

At Keys, growth is not about becoming the same kind of learner. It is about helping every child understand who they are as a learner—and empowering them to take their next step with purpose.