Our educational system is focused on achievement in terms of numbers instead of behavioral patterns and choices. Grades do not tell the whole story though and rarely help a student grow and develop strong academic habits. We need to see below the surface and look for patterns in students’ learning to guide them in gaining strength and skills to fill gaps, correct misconceptions and develop new and better habits. Listen in to see how grades don’t show the details and what we need to do as educators to help our students truly be successful in and outside the classroom Quotables We need to get out of the habit of doing something out of tradition when its no longer effective How well do they swim without floaties? Look at patterns, behaviors, choices, strategies, and create opportunities to showcase repetitive behaviors or uncover inconsistencies Grades don’t transform classrooms, teachers or students Student success should not come down to a number it should come down to the learning experience and journey of growth Students are more than a number and a score. They are learning to rely on their acquired knowledge and skill set to operate in the big world out there   Join elite educators everywhere in snagging tips, tricks and freebies right to your inbox every month! Become #empowered with the Always A Lesson newsletter: https://alwaysalesson.leadpages.co/newslettersignup/ Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com Blog: Always A Lesson  Facebook: Always A Lesson  Twitter: @gschultek   Linkedin: Gretchen Schultek Bridgers  Google+: Gretchen Schultek Bridgers   Book: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College    Leave a Rating and Review https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2&ls=1 Why? This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long lasting effect on our future.   How? Search for my show in iTunes or Stitcher. Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’ Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”</