Academic Promotion
Chancellor Carranza's Congratulatory Letters and Certificates for Stepping Up Students in 3K–Grade 8
To recognize their accomplishments under unique circumstances, Chancellor Carranza has prepared congratulatory letters to "Stepping Up" grade students and their families. A certificate of achievement co-signed by Mayor de Blasio accompanies each letter.
Our school will send these letters, certificates, and translations via email, or by mail if an email address is not on file, with the students and families as part of your stepping up celebrations or by July 1.
Promotion Policy
The Rafael Hernández School offers a dual language education that prepares students for high school and beyond:
Grades K, 1 and 2
- Attendance (goal 95%)
- Multiple criteria will be used to determine student progress (Attainment of benchmarks for ELA and Math standards, DRA2+, student work in all content areas, teacher observation…).
- Students with Disabilities (SWD) must meet their Individual Educational Plan criteria (IEP criteria). Please see Ms. Seminario for any questions.
- Promotion in Doubt letters will be sent out mid-year (January or early February). This is a clear indication as to your child’s academic standing. The letters must be signed and returned.
- Multiple criteria will be used to determine promotion.
Grades 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 (Promotional Criteria as per NYC Department of Education)
- Attendance (goal 95%)
- Students must show competency on the NYS Common Core ELA and Math standardized exam (students must score at least a Level 2 on both exams).
- For all students not performing on/or above a Level 2 on the Math and/or the ELA State Exam, a Promotional Portfolio will be developed. Promotional Portfolios that illustrate high Level 2 work will be submitted in June to the Superintendent for review. If exams must attend summer school and retake an abbreviated version of these exams and pass in order to be promoted.
- In August if the student passes the exam(s) (attains a Level 2 or higher) the student is promoted.
- If students do not pass the exams and do not have a high Level 2 portfolio, the student will be retained.
- Parents have the right to appeal the decision to retain their child. The parent must submit a letter to the Superintendent explaining why they feel their child’s case needs to be reviewed within the deadline established by the City. At that time, the Superintendent will review the portfolio and make a determination. The family is informed by mail.
- English Language Learners (ELLs) have specific criteria based on years of service such as performance on the New York State English as a Second Language Assessment Test (NYSESLAT).
- For clarification of promotion for ELLs, please see Ms. Carlo the Assistant Principal in charge of ELLs, Ms. Arias, Ms. Dos Santos or Ms. Igwe.
- Student with Disabilities (SWD) must meet their Individual Educational Plan criteria (IEP criteria). For questions see Ms. Seminario.
