Asheville School District implements new equitable grading practices and promotion benchmarks

The Asheville City Board of Education convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss key reforms aimed at enhancing educational standards and grading practices within the district. The meeting focused on two primary agenda items: accessibility measures for graduation and proposed reform policies for grading and student promotion.

The session began with a discussion on accessibility efforts for graduation ceremonies, specifically the use of golf carts to assist individuals with disabilities in navigating between the stadium and parking areas. Board members expressed support for these initiatives, indicating a consensus to include this item on the consent agenda.

Following this, Maggie, a district representative, provided an overview of proposed reform policies. She emphasized the need for operational policies that not only guide daily functions but also drive transformational change within the school district. The discussion highlighted the importance of equitable grading practices, which aim to ensure that grades accurately reflect student mastery of content rather than mere compliance with assignments.

Maggie outlined five core principles for grading reform, which include ensuring grades are accurate and reflective of student proficiency, promoting a growth mindset, providing timely feedback, and distinguishing between learning habits and final grades. The board engaged in a thorough discussion about these principles, with members expressing a desire for clarity and consistency in grading across different subjects and teachers.

The conversation also touched on the necessity of setting high expectations for student promotion. The proposed policy aims to create mutual accountability among students, parents, and educators, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to meet academic standards. The board discussed the importance of early identification of students who may be struggling and the implementation of interventions to help them succeed.

Maggie concluded the presentation by outlining the next steps, which include gathering further input from educators and students before presenting a refined policy draft at the May work session. Board members expressed appreciation for the proposed reforms, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards and ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all students.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving educational practices and addressing achievement gaps within the Asheville City Schools. The discussions set the stage for future policy developments aimed at fostering a more equitable and effective learning environment.