September 9, 2009 - Austin parents can view their child’s grades and attendance records on-line, thanks to Parent Connection, a service that is beginning its second school year in AISD.

From any computer with Internet access, parents will be able to view assignments, current grades, and attendance of students in grades 3-12. Parents of students in kindergarten through grade 2 will be able to view attendance records and report cards. Parents also may request a notification by email if their child’s attendance or grades drop to a specific threshold.  
 
All AISD parents will soon receive a letter informing them of how to access the service, along with a personal identification number — a PIN — that will enable them to view their child’s records. Middle and high school parent letters will be mailed on September 11, and elementary school parent letters on September 25.  
 
Parents who created a Parent Connection account last year do not have to re-enroll. Their accounts will continue, even if their child has changed schools. There is no cost to parents for Parent Connection service.  
 
“This is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance the level of communication with parents," Superintendent Dr. Meria Carstarphen said. "They will have access to almost ‘real time’ information about their child’s performance and daily attendance. There will be no more surprises at report card time for parents who use Parent Connection regularly."  
 
Parents who do not have a home computer with Internet access may use free computers located in Austin public libraries. For information about public library branch locations, parents may call 974-7400.  
 
Parent Connection is powered by “GradeSpeed,” software purchased through AISD’s May 2008 Bond Program. The cost was $300,000. After a brief trial period at several campuses, the service began Districtwide in AISD in January 2009.