Are you still doing evaluations?
Yes! As of August 2022 I am still doing portfolio evaluations. I am continuing, and expanding, my educational support offerings.
Are evaluations even required anymore?
Yes, evaluations (either portfolio or testing or "mutually agreeable") are still required by New Hampshire law. Because you don't need to turn in your evaluations, the July 1st deadline has been removed. Evaluations still need to be "annual". "If I don't have to turn them in, do I really need to get an evaluation?" YES. As always, please read the law for yourself. Of course, I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice : )
What about High School?
I evaluate high school portfolios and strongly suggest a completed portfolio plan form be included in all high school portfolios. Many parents panic in May, and I'm hoping this will help : )
Is my portfolio good enough?
I am not able to "pre-evaluate" portfolios. If you have concerns about specific materials, we can certainly chat, but I just can't go over the details of your entire school year and the portfolio you're hoping to create. Rule of thumb: Does your portfolio evidence your child's progress over the course of the school year?
When should I reschedule my evaluation?
You should call me and reschedule if:
- You or a family member has had a fever in the past 18 hours, OR
- You are actively sick. OR
- You are running so late that there really won't be time to do the evaluation anyway. OR
- You've been so busy with family stuff that you don't have any portfolio materials for me to evaluate.
What if I'm a really relaxed homeschooler?
"Evaluation by Portfolio" is perfect for the relaxed homeschooler! It's about showing your child's progress over the course of the year. Perhaps photos, a journal, or video of some science experiments might sum things up best. Perhaps "before" and "after" reading level assessments, to show that your eager-reader improved his skills. Perhaps you just need a book list to highlight your family's history studies. Portfolios are meant to be samples of real, applicable work done by your child. I talk to many parents who are panicked when there aren't many "writing assignments"--but their children write to family members each week and have progressed beautifully. Include what you need to in order to show a year's learning. Your child's portfolio needs to show their academic progress. It can be harder to document more informal learning styles -- but it's worth it if you take the time. When in doubt, if you and your students each keep a daily journal, along with copies of related work, you should be fine. Please check out my Portfolio Creation page for more ideas