The Focused Portfolio Program

Guadalupe Montessori School started using Focused Portfolio program in the Toddler and Primary classes last fall. This program documents each child's growth and development in relation to the curriculum goals we set in working with the children in our care. "A focused portfolio is a complete assessment process - careful, yet naturalistic observational anecdotes, combined with photos and work samples, inform both family members and teachers about the growth and development of children." (Gronlund & Engel, 1998)

Teachers collect artwork, record language, capture motor skills on film, and record observations as they occur, naturally and spontaneously, in the classroom. In this way, the portfolio system offers a unique opportunity to assess children's learning in an authentic way as we watch children in a familiar, predictable environment. The information gathered in this manner portrays a more genuine picture of a child's strengths, as well as points out those areas where a child needs some support and guidance.

Twice a year, during parent-teacher conferences, teachers will share the child's portfolio with parents or other adults who care for the child and invite contributions to the portfolio as well. When the child moves up to the next level, the family will be given the complete portfolio which documents the child's growth over the time that she/he has spent with us.

This new program is made possible through a contract with the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department. GMS is one of a handful organizations in the state to receive such a contract. We feel that it once again helps confirm the important work we are providing our kids and their parents.