Competency-based assessment is a requirement under state RSA as well as the New Hampshire Department of Education’s Ed. Rules to be implemented at the high school level by July 1, 2016, and at the K-8 Level by July 1, 2017. Newfound started integrating competencies at the high school level as early as 2009 and fully integrated competencies K-12 by 2019. 

Beyond the legal requirements, the purpose of a competency-based system is to shift the focus from “what teachers are teaching” to “how students are learning.” 

Some important characteristics of this system include the following:

● Students advance upon demonstrating mastery

● Competencies include explicit, measurable, transferable learning objectives

● Assessment is meaningful and a positive learning experience for students

● Students receive timely, differentiated support based on their individual needs and performance

● Individual competencies can be based on acquisition of knowledge or application of skills

A competency-based learning system is based on high achievement standards and a growth mindset. The traditional grading system of a 0-100 point scale often overly penalized students for not focusing on measurable learning objectives, nor did it force students to address their weaknesses in order to grow. Where a competency-based approach helps students identify those objectives and weaknesses allowing students and teachers to focus on growth. More information about our system can be found on the SAU 4 Curriculum & Assessment website.

From Superintendent Paul Horiis' 10.24.2024 "Competency-Based Grading message to families"