In the Fall of 2018, Mercy High School engaged the Christian Learning Center (CLC) Network to conduct a site study to examine the education support systems available at Mercy High School. The study included student, parent, teacher and administrator questionnaires and interviews - as well as classroom observations. 

 

One of the study findings was that many students indicated that electronic grading systems at Mercy seemed to increase anxiety and stress levels and affect students' concentration during school hours. Students and parents reported checking PowerSchool several times a day, more so just after a test or quiz. This constant checking not only decreases attention and motivation, but also increases focus on grades rather than overall learning. 

 

The recommendation from the CLC Network study was to investigate ways to limit the availability to PowerSchool during school hours. Since the schedule last school year did not include unscheduled hours, a dedicated time for students to stop in and meet with teachers, PowerSchool access was not limited.

 

Now that unscheduled hours have been reinstated for the 2021-22 school year, Mercy will return to the practice of disabling PowerSchool for students and parents from 7:30am - 2:40pm each school day. This will begin on Friday, August 27. Students are encouraged to take a screenshot of their schedule since a PowerSchool schedule will not be accessible. This will not affect Schoology access.

 

Thank you for your support of this policy that is intended to promote a healthy learning environment for all students.