Temecula Valley Unified School District debates reinstating D grade in grading policy

The Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) Governing Board convened on February 25, 2025, to discuss the contentious issue of the district's grading policy, particularly the absence of a D grade in high school evaluations. The meeting featured a series of public comments and board discussions that highlighted differing perspectives on the implications of the current grading system.

The session began with Christine Massa, a long-time parent in the district, advocating for the retention of the existing grading policy. She emphasized that a C grade signifies minimum proficiency, while a D or F does not compel students to recover credits, potentially hindering their future academic success. Massa argued that promoting students without meeting proficiency standards could negatively impact their readiness for higher-level courses and college admissions.

David Sola followed, expressing concern about the balance between maintaining high academic standards and supporting struggling students. He requested statistical data on how many students are affected by the current grading policy, suggesting that the board should consider the needs of all students rather than lowering standards for a small percentage.

Dana Portis, a teacher at Chaparral High School, presented a case for reinstating the D grade, citing the challenges students face in the wake of pandemic-related learning gaps. She argued that the D grade serves as a critical tool for guiding students' educational journeys and that its absence could lead to inaccuracies in transcript reporting.

The discussion continued with personal testimonies, including one from a former student who recounted how receiving a D grade impacted their academic trajectory, ultimately leading to struggles in college-level mathematics. This narrative underscored the potential long-term consequences of the current grading policy.

Board members engaged in a thorough examination of the implications of the grading system, with some advocating for a survey to gather input from teachers and administrators across the district. They expressed a desire to ensure that any changes to the grading policy align with the district's commitment to academic excellence while also addressing equity concerns for all students.

Superintendent Dr. Velez provided insights into the financial implications of credit recovery programs and the ongoing costs associated with supporting students who fail courses. She noted that even if a D grade were reinstated, the district would still incur costs related to summer school and credit recovery.

As the meeting concluded, the board reached a consensus to further explore the grading policy issue, including the potential for a survey to gauge the opinions of educators. They acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure that any adjustments to the grading system would uphold the district's standards for academic proficiency while also considering the diverse needs of its student population. The board plans to revisit the topic in future meetings, aiming for a well-informed decision that reflects the values of the community and the educational goals of the district.