What is Progressive Assessment?
Reimagining assessment through equity, skill development and outcome mastery.
Progressive assessment redefines how we understand student success. It’s not just about removing traditional grades—it’s about transforming the purpose of assessment itself. Grounded in culturally responsive teaching practices and a commitment to decolonizing institutional school structures, this approach places student inclusion, safety, and empowerment at the center of learning.
By focusing on growth rather than comparison, progressive assessment supports mental well-being and fosters a sense of belonging in the classroom. It values intercultural ways of knowing and affirms that students have voice and agency in their learning.
Grounded in equity and research-informed practice, progressive assessment helps learners build the skills, confidence, and independence needed to achieve true outcome and skill mastery.
About Me
Originally from small-town Saskatchewan, I moved to Winnipeg to pursue a career in Athletic Therapy, which led to my first experiences working with youth. After seven years in this field and in private business, I recognized that my true passion was in education and began my teaching career as a physical education teacher.
Over the years, I have held a range of leadership and instructional roles, including Student Services Teacher, Physical Education Coordinator, Indigenous Education Coordinator, Vice Principal, and currently, Principal. Each role has shaped my understanding of the critical role schools play in supporting the well-being, identity, and success of every student.
My work is driven by a deep commitment to equity and a belief that we must do better, particularly for students who have been historically marginalized by our education systems. I believe that transforming how we assess learning is one of the most powerful levers we have to create more inclusive, empowering, and student-centered schools.
My Philosophy
At the core of my educational philosophy is a firm belief that the purpose of schooling is not to sort, rank, or control students, but to cultivate their agency, voice, and potential. My approach is deeply informed by Dr. Martin Brokenleg’s Circle of Courage model, which affirms that all young people flourish when they experience belonging, independence, mastery, and generosity.
Assessment should never be used as a tool of compliance or standardization. Instead, it must function as a transformative practice—one that recognizes student strengths, encourages meaningful reflection, and empowers learners to take ownership of their educational journeys.
When done well, assessment is a powerful tool for both student and educator growth. It helps students develop a clearer understanding of themselves as learners, supports teachers in refining their practice, and fosters inclusive classroom environments where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of success.
I do not believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Every school community is unique, and every team of educators brings its own strengths, challenges, and goals. That’s why I prioritize working with educators collaboratively, respectfully, and responsively. Whether through workshops, coaching, or long-term partnerships, my role is not to deliver a formula, but to help teams build on what they already do well while offering evidence-informed strategies that center in student well-being and achievement.
If you're looking to reimagine assessment in a way that aligns with your values, enhances your school culture, and makes learning more meaningful for students, I would be honoured to work alongside you.
Speaking and Workshops
For Schools, Divisions & Educators
Options can be tailored to your needs.
Below are previous presentations:
Building School Culture: Leading Progressive Assessment Change Together
Creating Academic Safety: Building Environments Where Students Take Risks
Moving Beyond Percentages: Rethinking Assessment in Today’s Classrooms
From Compliance to Curiosity: Making Mastery-Based Learning Work
Decolonizing the Gradebook: Shifting Power in Assessment through outcome and skill-based assessment
Progressive Assessment through the lens of specific each subject areas
Format Options:
Keynotes
Full or half-day Professional Development sessions
Long-term collaborative consulting
Virtual coaching or learning series
Too often, leadership is defined by titles instead of impact.
That is why those who work with Dionne describe her leadership as:
Student-First
Dionne is unwavering in her commitment to student well-being, success, and equity, especially for those who face systemic barriers. Her leadership always centers inclusion, belonging, and creating safe spaces for all learners.
Challenging the Status Quo
She leads with a deep sense of justice, challenging outdated norms and colonial structures. In difficult moments, she is decisive, value-driven, and unafraid to take bold, necessary action.
High Expectations, High Support
Known for her relentless work ethic and belief that everyone can succeed, Dionne models the same effort and growth she expects from others. She empowers staff to innovate, improve, and rise to their full potential.
Reflective and Authentic
Colleagues value her honesty, humility, and ability to learn from experience. She leads with heart and integrity—owning outcomes and remaining transparent, even in complex situations.
Collaborative and Capacity-Building
Dionne doesn’t lead alone, she builds capacity in those around her. Through mentorship, shared learning, and a clear vision, she helps create a school culture where students and staff thrive together.
Away From The Numbers
A feature from the Winnipeg Free Press by Maggie Macintosh.
Glenlawn teachers are shifting to a more holistic learning process focused on individual skill acquisition and personal progress through the school year.
