Assessments

At Spark Learning Center, we believe that students are more than a test score. With that in mind, we view assessments as a way to provide authentic and meaningful feedback that helps guide a student's learning journey. It helps us understand each child’s growth and guide next steps in our teaching.

We believe students should have multiple ways to show what they know and can do, and we use a variety of tools to capture the full picture of their progress.

A Standards-Based Approach

Spark uses a standards-based grading system that focuses on skill mastery rather than traditional letter grades. Each subject is divided into key standards from the North Carolina Standard Course of Study — the essential skills and concepts for each grade level.

Instead of one overall grade, families see how students are progressing on each standard using a 1–4 scale:

4 – Exceeds Standards: Demonstrates advanced understanding and application of skills.
3 – Meets Standards: Consistently performs at grade level expectations.
2 – Approaching Standards: Developing understanding; needs additional practice or support.
1 – Below Standards: Working toward foundational understanding with teacher support.

Teachers gather evidence from projects, assignments, discussions, quizzes, and classroom observations to determine where each student stands. Because learning is a process, standards are introduced and assessed progressively throughout the year — students have multiple chances to grow and demonstrate mastery.

State Testing

As required by North Carolina, Spark students participate in the state End-of-Grade (EOG) testing program. Students in grades 6-8 take EOG tests in Math and Reading. Students in grade 8 also take the EOG in Science. In accordance with policy, EOGs are taken in person, on site at Spark Learning Center. There are no virtual EOG test sessions.