School Board approves new four-letter grading scale for preK-12 consistency

The Exeter Region Cooperative School Board convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss several key topics, with a significant focus on the proposed changes to the grading scale across all grade levels. This meeting highlighted the board's commitment to creating a more consistent and understandable grading system for students and parents alike.

One of the main discussions centered around transitioning from a five-letter grading scale to a four-letter scale, which aims to unify grading practices from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The proposal seeks to simplify the grading process, addressing the confusion that has arisen from having multiple grading systems in place over the years. Board members acknowledged the challenges faced by parents and students due to the previous twelve different grading systems at the cooperative middle school, emphasizing the need for a streamlined approach.

The proposed grading scale retains familiar terminology, ensuring that while the system is simplified, it does not compromise the integrity of the assessments. For instance, elementary report cards currently utilize a three-point scale that aligns with age-appropriate learning benchmarks, while high school students will continue to receive traditional letter grades. The consistency in rubrics across all grades is designed to provide students with clear feedback as they progress through the educational system.

During the meeting, board members expressed their support for the new grading scale, with one member making a motion to approve the changes, which was seconded without further objections. The board's consensus reflects a shared understanding of the importance of clarity in grading, which is expected to enhance the educational experience for students and alleviate concerns for parents.

In conclusion, the Exeter Region Cooperative School Board's decision to move forward with a unified grading scale marks a significant step towards improving educational consistency. As the board prepares to implement these changes, the community can anticipate a more coherent grading system that benefits students from their earliest years through high school.