Thanks to FCPS’s new open gradebook system, parents can take one small step on their computer and one giant leap for transparency.

Early in September, letters were sent to all FCPS parents with information on the new SIS Parent Accounts that would be available to them. The letters provided access codes and directions on how to register for the account.

By logging into their account, parents gain instant access to their sons or daughters’ grades. They will no longer have to wait for emailed grade reports; parents can look into each teacher’s gradebook and check on their child’s grades at any time.

“Instead of interims or grade reports, [grades] will be there at the touch of the hand,” said Principal Michael Mukai, who expressed satisfaction at the fact that our grading is catching up to the technology that is available today.

Parents also have the ability to view attendance history, this year’s report card, as well as course history (which is in essence a student’s transcript). Many parents find this additional information very helpful.

“Having three children in HS and being able to see all of this makes it much easier to manage,” said Karen Nabhan, who has three sons attending WS: a freshman, a sophomore, and a senior. “I mostly like having history of classes in the past which until now I was keeping track of in a spreadsheet,” said Nabhan.

In addition to the actual gradebook, SIS Parent Accounts increase transparency in other ways. Because parents can view their child’s information including address and emergency contacts, parents can easily see if there is an error in the school’s records and contact an administrator to have it fixed. With the discipline and attendance history tabs, parents can stay on top of their students’ behavior in school (much to the chagrin of many students).

“I like how you can see your grades but I feel like your parents can see too much now,” said freshman David Larson. “Is nothing secret anymore?”

The new system gives some the impression that parents are given too much control. The main complaint is that the information is given to parents only rather than students and parents. However, it is very easy for parents to share the account with students in order to stay on the same page. Ultimately, the system improves communication.

“You have the ability to address things. You don’t have things getting worse or people getting angrier,” said Assistant Principal Becky Brandt.

Many teachers emphasize the new system’s role in de-mystifying the grading process. With full transparency, students can recognize quickly when they need help in a class.

“What I like about the idea is that Interims and report cards won’t be a surprise. It gives students tools to improve their grades earlier and not wait until they get bad news,” said AP Lit teacher Jennifer Beach.

Joanne Pendry is a history teacher at WS and also the mother of a WS senior. Although she thinks the system is a great step forward, she thinks the gradebook can sometimes be unclear about which assignments are excused and which are not.

“I wish the software was a little more user-friendly for teachers, parents, and students,” said Pendry.

Parents are still signing up for accounts and it is a tad early to assess the effectiveness of the new system. However, the consensus among students, teachers and parents seems to be that it will be a change for the better.

“This will help us. It will improve transparency,” said senior Troy Chaplin. “It can be a good incentive even if it is a fear factor.”