The general observations weren't just for the parents. They were small mirrors held up to each child, reflecting not the student they were today, but the person they could be tomorrow.

She kept writing. For Sofía, who read three grade levels ahead but refused to raise her hand: "Sofía is an enthusiastic reader. She is learning to trust her knowledge and share it with the class."

She picked up notebook. Tomás was the one who tied his shoelaces around the legs of his chair "to anchor the classroom so it wouldn't float away."

Ms. López wrote: "Valentina expresses herself richly through art and non-verbal activities. Her powers of observation are exceptional. We encourage her to share her ideas with a partner before speaking to the whole group."

And that, Ms. López thought, was the real magic of third grade.

For Diego, who finished everything in five minutes and then wiggled like a worm: "Diego completes tasks efficiently. We are exploring enrichment activities to challenge his fast-processing mind."