CRTC recently completed its first Student Performance upon Understanding Review (SPUR) process for Quarter 1, 2009-10.  The SPUR model, an original system developed by our staff, is the CRTC’s student evaluation system.  The SPUR process was designed to reflect a mix of industry and academic values and was based on extensive research by our entire staff, with feedback.  Strategies promoted by two Nationally recognized leaders in this area, Robert Marzano and Thomas Guskey, heavily influenced our design.   

The key component to the SPUR process is a ten-minute meeting between each student and  his or her teacher to review all aspects of the student’s performance.  Success requires that students demonstrate skill, understanding, and proficiency with both Competencies (hard skills) and Habits of Mind (soft skills).  Competencies are workplace understandings and skills required for a specific profession.  Habits of Mind are personal and interpersonal qualities–such as attitude, work ethic, and collaboration–that are required for all professions. Competencies and Habits of Mind are, in essence, our outcomes–what we as a community value that students demonstrate as a prerequisite to graduating students from our programs.  A listing of all programs-based Competencies can be found listed under Programs on the left of this page.  Click here for Center-based Habits of Mind.

The SPUR meeting conversation is very structured; and performance ratings upon all active Competencies and Habits of Mind are negotiated, established and then charted graphically.  Prior to the meetings, students compile portfolios of evidence which attest to their skill and understanding of “active” competencies. They also perform self-assessments.

Spur Guide
Grade Conversion