Questions and Answers from the January Parent Survey

Parents,

Here are the questions and answers from the first survey:

1) Is there a problem with the i-cal function? I can't get it to synch with my calendar?

A: Yes, since the last upgrade from PowerSchool, the i-cal function is not working properly. The company will let us know when the function is working again.

2) Can you have the grading system available? What number grades correspond with the letters?

A: If the student is in grades 3-8, the default grade scale is as follows:
97-100=A+, 93-96=A, 89-92=B+, 85-88=B, 80-84=C+, 75-79=C, 70-74=D, 69 and below=F.

3) Where do I go if I have problems logging on to the system to see my child's grades?

A: If it is a password or ID problem, contact your school. If you are having trouble getting onto the website, try the link on this page or email aellis@diometuchen.org.

4) When will our school move the homework assignments to PowerSchool? It's too time consuming to look in two places.

A: The intent is for you to find homework on the PowerSchool site as well. The schools should move to homework and grades for the September 2008 school opening.

5) Why can't we change the ID and password to one we can remember easily?

A: ID's and passwords are set by the system. Unfortunately, if we set the system to make the ID's and passwords easier, others can figure out your passwords and enter your child's account. It is for security purposes that we allow the system to choose the passwords and IDs.

6) Why then can't we have one password and ID to see all of our children instead of having a separate ID for each child?

A: Again, because of security purposes, each file has its own password and ID. However, this is an issue that was sent to PowerSchool and hopefully it will be offered in a future upgrade.

7) How can I contact the teacher through PowerSchool?

A: If the school has email addresses for each of the teachers, you can contact the teacher by clicking on their name if it is listed in blue text. Please do not respond to the email notifications if you signed up for them. It does not get sent to the teacher, it goes back to the PowerSchool server.

8) How often are grades and assignments updated?

A: Diocesan policy is that teachers have a week to post grades. If the project is graded across the curriculum, teachers have 2 weeks to post assignments. This does not pertain to special subjects in elementary schools. Teachers of special subjects see the students at a maximum of 1 day per week and may post only twice a quarter.

9) Can the teacher actually post the date of the assignment instead of the date the assignment was graded?

A: Yes, teachers have the ability to set the date in the system. Contact the teacher if you have a question about the date of an assignment.

10) Can the system send one email instead of 10 when I sign up for notifications regarding grades and assignments?

A: Unfortunately, the system is set to provide individual class information. This is another request sent to PowerSchool to consider for a future upgrade.

More Questions? Send them to Adele K. Ellis at aellis@diometuchen.org

Happy Catholic Schools Week!