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TLSS recommends keeping high-school passing grade at 65; committee to consider change at full meeting
Summary
A TLSS subcommittee voted 3— to recommend maintaining a 65 passing grade rather than lowering it to 60; one member said she now supports change after reviewing research and may alter her floor vote when the matter reaches the full committee.
Member Guardiola reported out the Teaching, Learning and Student Support (TLSS) standing-committee meeting held Oct. 16, 2025, and described two motions: first, that the proposed mastery-based high-school grading guidance retain a 65 passing grade rather than lower it to 60; second, to forward guidance and allow remaining professional-development details to be completed. The subcommittee vote on keeping 65 carried 3—.
Member Alvarez told the full committee she had originally voted against lowering the failing grade from 65 to 60 but, after reviewing research, now believes reforms can promote equity. "Research shows that grading reforms like this don't lower expectations; they actually promote equity, keep students engaged and better reflect what they've learned," Alvarez said, and asked to be allowed to change her earlier subcommittee vote when the matter comes before the full committee.
Member Guardiola raised a procedural question about whether the subcommittee could change its vote at full committee and said the full committee would take up the policy before final approval. Member McCullough and other members described related policy work that ensures alignment with DESE guidelines.
What happens next: The grading-policy recommendations will return to the full School Committee for consideration and final approval; Member Alvarez indicated she may change her vote at that time so members should expect further debate.
