Elementary Schools Shift from Trimester to Semesters

Since the Elementary Parent-Teacher conference changed to early November and the first report card will not be available for families until February, many families wondered why Issaquah School District made this change and what impacts it will have on parents and students. The reason for the change is that the Issaquah School District decided to adjust the Elementary schedule from three trimesters to two semesters.

Along with this adjustment, one of the major changes involves the timing of Elementary Parent-Teacher conferences. Previously held at the beginning of December (end of the first trimester), conferences are now scheduled for early November under the semester system. This adjustment aims to develop early and meaningful communication between parents and teachers. By moving conferences earlier in the school year, there is now a more extensive opportunity for parents and teachers to connect and discuss student progress. This aligns with the educational philosophy of enhancing collaboration between educators and families.

The transition to semesters also allows for better alignment with district assessments (i-Ready). This alignment is particularly beneficial in informing the content of the first semester's report card, which is scheduled to be issued at the beginning of February.

Also, this shift to semesters will impact 5th graders who need to choose their middle school courses. The issuance of the first report card in February is strategically designed to provide 5th-grade families with timely information for selecting courses as part of the middle school course request process. This normally happens in late February or early March. This change aims to facilitate a smoother transition for students entering middle school.

With the move to semesters, the progress reporting timeline is now more evenly distributed throughout the school year. Parents can expect progress reports in November (the conference), February (first-semester report card), and June (second-semester report card). This offers a more comprehensive view of their child's academic development. If the student is receiving LRC (Learning Resource Center) services, the family will get a progress report three times a year (November, February, and June). This will align with the new semester-based schedule. If the student is a MultiLingual Learner (MLL) or receiving Title/LAP intervention services, they will receive two progress reports (February and June) to align with the new semester report card window.

Overall, these adjustments were made to enhance communication, streamline processes, and provide parents with more timely and actionable information about their student's academic journey. If parents have any questions or concerns with their student’s school academic development because of this adjustment, please contact the student’s classroom teacher for more details.