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Candidates split on equitable grading and measuring academic performance at Penfield forum
Summary
At the Penfield Central School District candidate forum, candidates debated the district's equitable grading practices, the difficulty of comparing recent assessment results, and approaches to supporting both struggling and advanced students.
Debate at a candidate forum for the Penfield Central School District focused in part on the district's recent equitable grading practices, how to interpret test results under changing standards, and strategies to support students at different levels.
Dr. Sarah Pace, a candidate and parent, criticized the district's equitable grading approach. "I believe we need to reevaluate the equitable grading practices that have been implemented this year. They are lowering standards and expectations of the students, inflating grades, and failing to hold students accountable," Pace said, adding she supports "rigorous standards and merit based grading" to prepare students for postsecondary and workforce paths.
Other candidates urged caution in drawing conclusions from current assessment data. Susan Gilbert Collins noted changes in testing formats and standards: "You cannot compare the computer based tests with the previous tests... we went over to the next generation standards. You cannot compare those tests, soundly." Collins also said the district has a high opt-out rate for standardized tests and that opt-outs make trend interpretation difficult.
Candidates described several approaches to supporting both struggling students and those performing above grade level. Dr. Emily Roberts and Dr. Scott Wilson emphasized meeting students where they are and preserving advanced opportunities such as Advanced Placement courses; Roberts highlighted that the district paid AP exam fees this year so students could take exams without cost. Nate Chienenko said responses should probe root causes of any learning gaps before adopting remedies. James Ashby said a restored focus on data and classroom investment is needed to regain academic standing.
None of the candidates introduced or endorsed specific, board-adopted changes during the forum; discussion was framed as campaign positions and priorities rather than formal board action.
Ending: Candidates agreed on maintaining opportunities for advanced students while calling for tailored supports for students who need extra help; how the district balances those goals will be a topic for voters to consider.
