Since ARIS Parent Link, the Department of Education's student data portal, went live in May 2009, parents have had online access to their children's grades and test results.   No doubt lots of anxious parents found ARIS handy in mid-August, when they were able to log on to learn their children's 2010 state test results, several weeks before the start of the school on September 8.

With ARIS, parents have access to information that in the past they could only get by rummaging through a folder or drawer packed with old report cards and test result notices.  Online, parents can read their child's transcript, including current and past courses,  see the results of all standardized and Regents exams and check attendance records dating back several years. (Hint:  you'll need to scroll down to view the bulk of information)

Of course not every parent logs on to ARIS. Some don't have access to computers or the internet, while others never received (or lost) their temporary password or don't know their child's student ID number -- you'll need both to log on.  And then there are the "old school" types who don't like to check online what they can read in print or learn in person.

All this leads us to our latest poll:  Have you logged on to ARIS?

If yes, was it helpful?  If no, why not?

Please take our poll and share your thoughts below.