Grades and attendance now online

Laguna Beach High parents can access their children’s official records from their home computers.Parents of Laguna Beach High School students can now obtain their children’s grades and other information -- such as attendance and tardiness records -- on the Internet.

Aeries Browser Interface, an online grading system, was first tested by 15 teachers at Laguna Beach High School last year.

As a result of the positive response, the system is being used by all of the high school’s teachers and is available to parents and students.

A letter explaining the system was recently sent to parents and students.

Steven Keller, assistant superintendent for instructional services, brought the system to the district and arranged training for staff.

“The detailed information from this online tool creates a transparent accountability process,” Keller said. “As a parent, I am better equipped to support his academic needs and I can do this in a more timely fashion.” Keller has a child in the district.

In addition to learning about daily assignments, parents and students can learn about school absences, days tardy and report card grades.

Laguna Beach High School principal Nancy Blade said the system has many advantages for families.

“I think this opportunity may be the single most important communication tool we have at the high school,” Blade said. “I have heard from so many parents who appreciate the ability to know how their child is doing at school and as a result can better support their child. Students also love it. They get immediate feedback, and they have a better understanding of what they need to do to improve grades.”

The program is supported by the district office and Victor Guthrie, the district’s director of technology.