Martin County Schools launch FOCUS parent portal for grade monitoring and enrollment application

In a vibrant virtual gathering, the Martin County School District hosted its Parent University: Virtual Middle School Preview Night, offering a wealth of information to families preparing for the transition to middle school. The evening was filled with insights aimed at demystifying the middle school experience, particularly focusing on the FOCUS system, which serves as a crucial tool for both students and parents.

As the meeting unfolded, attendees learned about the FOCUS platform, a digital grade book that allows teachers to enter grades while enabling students and parents to monitor academic progress. Parents were encouraged to set up their own access through the parent portal, which can be found at martinschools.org. This portal not only tracks grades but also attendance, ensuring families stay informed about their child's school life.

A key highlight of the discussion was the grading scale that students will encounter in middle school. Each assignment will be graded on a scale of 100%, with tests and major assignments accounting for 50% of the overall grade, quizzes and other assignments making up 30%, and daily activities contributing the remaining 20%. This clear breakdown aims to help students and parents understand how grades are calculated, fostering a supportive environment for academic success.

The meeting also addressed the process for applying to a middle school outside of a student's zoned area. Parents were guided through a straightforward three-step application process via the parent portal. They learned that once logged in, they can access the fall enrollment application, which will be temporarily closed while the March Choice window applications are processed. The demographic information needed for the application is conveniently auto-populated from the student's FOCUS account, streamlining the process for families.

As the evening drew to a close, the message was clear: Martin County Schools are committed to providing the resources and support necessary for every child's success. With tools like the FOCUS system and a transparent application process, families are empowered to navigate the middle school journey with confidence. The district's proactive approach not only informs but also engages parents, ensuring they play an active role in their children's education.