The purging process is required to manage the accumulation of work samples in the portfolio. Toward the end of a grading period, the artifacts collected in the portfolio are evaluated in relation to individual student goals in order to select a smaller sample of work. Purged items are sent home with the student. The portfolio remains in the classroom. Including the student in this process is highly recommended since it is a meaningful time to review the process of growth over time.
Students can readily see a picture of how much they have progressed during their time in school.
Plans should include a system to pass the portfolio from teacher to teacher or from school to school if the student relocates. The booklet also serves as a useful guide for teachers looking for information on the subject.