Less than 60 percent of schools have adopted a new assessment and reporting policy, and many have no intention of using it.

SMART launched in February, replacing a 20-year-old framework.

It gives parents of year zero-to-10 students progress markers, and twice-yearly updates.

Masterton’s Douglas Park School has signed up - with no plans to bring it in.

Principal Gareth Sinton says he doubts the system lives up to its name.

"But I just don't think we need to use a new tool, an overseas tool, that wasn't actually designed and developed for New Zealand kids when there are better options available inside our own country."

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