Salem High students oppose new 8 point grading scale at school board meeting

Salem High School students voiced strong opposition to proposed changes in the grading system during the Salem School Board meeting on June 16, 2025. The students expressed concerns that shifting from a traditional 100-point scale to a new 4-point or 8-point grading system would undermine their academic achievements and diminish their chances for college admissions.

Several students, including rising seniors Abby Bealey and Abigail Joss, highlighted how the new grading scales oversimplify performance and fail to accurately reflect their hard work. Bealey, who is second in her class, argued that the 100-point scale provides a precise measurement of effort, while the proposed systems would dilute their accomplishments. Joss shared a personal experience where her score on a final exam was unfairly reduced due to the limitations of the 4-point scale, which she felt did not allow for nuanced grading.

Jack Schafer, another senior, raised concerns about how the new grading system would affect students with disabilities, questioning whether it would adequately accommodate their needs. He emphasized the importance of fair grading that reflects individual effort and achievement.

Students also pointed out practical issues with the grading software, Infinite Campus, which they claimed complicates the grading process and lacks transparency. Alexandra Kao noted that the system misrepresents grades, making it difficult for students and parents to understand how final grades are calculated.

The proposed 8-point grading system, which would reduce the number of letter grades and increase the percentage needed for grade changes, was met with particular resistance. Eli Bridal Lander argued that this change would create unnecessary obstacles for students striving to improve their grades, potentially leading to decreased motivation and lower overall performance.

The students' passionate testimonies underscored a collective desire for a grading system that accurately reflects their efforts and achievements. As the school board considers these changes, the implications for student morale and academic integrity remain a critical focus for the community.