VACSE employs a multifaceted approach to assessing student learning and ensuring academic success, guided by the Core Knowledge Sequence and various teaching methods. Here’s how learning and teaching are assessed:
Core Knowledge Sequence:
VACSE uses the Core Knowledge Sequence as a roadmap for what students should learn from kindergarten through eighth grade. This sequence aligns with state standards and Common Core, ensuring a comprehensive and logical progression of knowledge.
Direct Instruction (DI):
DI emphasizes well-structured lessons to accelerate learning. To assess the effectiveness of DI, VACSE relies on full school immersion and accountability. The curriculum is carefully planned based on scaffolding for future grades, and lesson plans are reviewed to ensure alignment with the Core Knowledge Sequence.
Accountability:
VACSE recognizes the importance of data in assessing student and teacher performance. Various standardized formative and summative assessments are employed, including classroom assignments, portfolios, content assessments, projects, PSSA testing, aimswebPlus, and Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) testing. These assessments help calibrate teacher effectiveness and inform instructional improvements.
Project-Based Learning (PBL):
Students engage in project-based learning besides traditional assessments. Projects are presented during “Curriculum Night” events, allowing students to showcase their knowledge, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. These presentations offer insight into their academic and life skills, such as collaboration, communication, and presentation.
Flipped Classrooms:
Upper-grade students participate in flipped classrooms, where instruction is delivered through interactive videos or podcasts. This approach encourages independent learning, self-assessment, and active engagement. Teachers have more time to address individual needs, and students can review lectures as needed.
Extended Day Program:
Recognizing that some students require more time for mastery, VACSE offers an Extended Day Program. This program provides supplemental academic support and diverse opportunities such as clubs and competitions, helping assess students’ progress in extended learning environments.
Positive Behavior Support:
VACSE focuses on positive behavior support to create a conducive learning atmosphere. Staff and students are trained in this approach to curb disruptive behaviors, ultimately improving learning outcomes.
Parental Engagement:
VACSE collaborates with the National Network of Partnership Schools to engage parents meaningfully. Research-based tools empower families to contribute to school quality and student achievement, enhancing the learning environment.
World Language Instruction:
VACSE aims to cultivate global citizens with robust communication abilities by providing various language options for students. Language acquisition and cultural comprehension assessment are seamlessly integrated into students’ overall development.

In summary, VACSE employs a comprehensive assessment strategy that combines traditional measures, project-based assessments, and innovative teaching methods to evaluate student learning and ensure academic success. This multifaceted approach aligns with the school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded, autonomous learners prepared for future challenges.