This year, Azle ISD has implemented a new grading system through Skyward, aiming to streamline how students and teachers manage assignments and grades. While many students appreciate the benefits, others found some aspects of the new system overwhelming.
One standout feature is the ability for students to view missing assignments easily. This transparency helps keep students accountable, allowing them to stay on top of their work.
“I really like the way the grading works so far,” senior Alyssa Hughes said. “And there’s a part where you can view your personal assignments, which I find really helpful.”
While the current focus is on grades, many students are hopeful about utilizing additional features in the future, such as tracking community service hours, career plans and endorsements.
“I do hope they plan to use the other features in the future,” Sophomore Levi Hinckley said. “It would be beneficial for keeping up with information for college applications.”
Several students, like Levi, have expressed excitement about the potential for Skyward to serve as a resource for managing their academic and extracurricular commitments.
Additionally, while some appreciate the detailed feedback on assignments, others feel it can be overwhelming.
“It’s going to take some getting used to for sure,” Junior Phybie Guinn said.“There are so many different features. It was incredibly confusing the first few days, but I’m getting the hang of it now.”
Despite mixed feelings, the overall reception of Skyward appears positive, especially as students learn to navigate its features. Teachers have also noted the potential for improved communication and efficiency.
“I like that we can directly communicate with parents and students through Skyward,” English teacher Amanda Seymour said. “It really helps with addressing grades and discipline issues, so we can just go through the child’s profile and easily contact the parents.”
As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how our school community adapts to the new system and how it may enhance our educational experience.
