The response from teachers has been enthusiastic, Jewell said. State agencies are not known for being innovative. Despite progress in the Chicago, Cincinnati and Texas school administrations, many school systems still lack basic technology. Teachers in other parts of the country still must enter the bulk of data with No. 2 pencils. Such outmoded grading methods are still common, several teachers said.
Many frustrated teachers assemble sophisticated grading systems using their own time and money.
Mary Ellen Takayama, a fifth grade teacher at Serrano Elementary School in Villa Park, Calif., uses Teacher's Toolbox Deluxe from MMI Inc. of Pennsauken, N.J., to manage grades, seating charts and classroom events such as field trips. Self-taught The software lets her drag and drop student names from the classroom roster to the seating chart grid, she said. Teacher's Toolbox also can assign weight to quizzes and tests. Ill. According to Alexander, North Carolina educators are considering implementing a statewide grade management system that is 15 to 20 years behind the technology curve. It's a delight to work with.