Board weighs changes to course-retake policy to align with Indiana diploma rules

Richmond Community Schools’ policy committee discussed proposed changes to policy 5462 on Feb. 13 that would let students retake classes under broader conditions tied to the new Indiana diploma ‘seal.’

The draft adds an option permitting a student who earned a grade of C+ or below to retake a course. Board members and staff debated whether the retake grade should replace the original or be averaged into the GPA; one administrator noted current practice in some cases replaces the original grade, while another read language that would average the two. Counsel cautioned clarity is needed so practice matches policy.

Members also discussed how middle‑school high‑credit courses (for example, algebra) and virtual/transfer credits should be handled and said the counseling department currently reviews transcripts so principals can sign off on whether a transfer credit counts. Staff cautioned against a vague "administrative approval" mandate without defining the process and who monitors it.

Board members asked staff to provide data on how many students request retakes and to develop clear recommendations for how retake grades affect GPA, how online credits are evaluated, and what oversight the counseling/principal offices will exercise. Staff will return the policy with recommendations for further discussion at a subsequent policy meeting.