Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Grading Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
District completes grading work groups; staff to finalize guides and rollout in August
Summary
K-12 grading work groups reviewed district grading philosophy and practices, produced recommended educator and family guides, and plan to finalize drafts with superintendent feedback before an August professional learning rollout and ongoing building-level support.
District staff reported the completion of K'5 and 6'12 grading work groups that reviewed grading philosophy, practices and communication needs and recommended a set of educator and family guides to reduce confusion and "mission drift." The work is intended to standardize messaging and clarify grading practices across the district.
Melissa Chlepnick, director of professional learning, said the groups were formed after an external review by HYA Associates recommended revisiting grading philosophy and practices. The district surveyed administrators, teachers, parents and students and used the HYA report and best-practice research to inform the work groups. Members sought consensus in drafting changes and recommended both an educator guide and a family-facing guide to explain grading and transitions from elementary (1'4 scale) to secondary (letter grades).
Chlepnick said the work groups will deliver drafts to Superintendent Dr. Merillo for review, and after any revisions the district will finalize materials and run a facilitated video-based professional learning session for staff during the August in-service day. The district also plans building-level communications and will involve principals and work-group volunteers in post-implementation support.
Board members asked about ongoing coaching and help for teachers after rollout; staff said work-group members and building principals will serve as supports and that the district plans targeted communication to families to ease the grade-scale transition.
No formal action was required; staff will proceed with final edits, superintendent review, and an August implementation and communication plan.
