ReThink Higher Ed developed an alternative assessment system in order to accurately and reliably assess student progress and performance over time and thus better prepare the students for the workplace. It is designed so that throughout each term, the faculty and administration work as an integrated collaborative team to both create and implement this system.

There are 13 skill sets by which students are measured. Within each skill area are corresponding performance indicators, or specific content area skills, mapped to the workforce. There are over 125 performance indicators for these 13 skills sets.

Instead of receiving arbitrary points or letter grades at the end of each quarter, student performances are communicated in a report detailing the skills addressed by each course. All assignments and activities are correlated to skills, which gives the students direct and meaningful feedback on their performance. All courses include Self Management, Responsibility, and Basic Communication as universal skills sets with content skill sets applied as appropriate.

Evaluations have proved to be a critical component to the ongoing improvement of the Passport Program. Quarterly class evaluations from students, parents, and faculty provide insight and remain invaluable to the community at large. Students also self-assesses their performances in each class.

It is the intention that this alternative assessment system will be helpful in preparing students for the workforce.