Changes in Grading at Fallsburg Jr.-Sr. High School

The Fallsburg Jr.-Sr. High School is making several improvements to student grading and reporting for 2019–20.  These changes have been developed after extensive discussions among the school’s grading practices committee, and in full consideration of research, literature, and feedback on grading practices.

We have published a guidance document that details these changes (see below).  Please review it carefully.  The changes are as follows:

Separation of Academic and Behavior Grades

This change has been widely accepted by grading committee members, administration, staff, and researchers.  Teachers will rate students quarterly on several behavior indicators on a three-point scale: Exceeds Expectations; Meets Expectations; or Needs Improvement.  These will be included in 10-week report cards.  The behaviors listed may not be considered in students’ academic grades, except where noted in the guidance document (see the footnotes). 

The behavior grade will help students and families see how the practice of positive behaviors will support academic achievement, and enhance habits that will increase opportunities for success in the future.   

 Application of Homework in Academic Grades

Teachers are encouraged to consider and regularly assign homework.  Completion of homework will be evaluated in students’ behavior grades (see above).  Homework may, however, be factored into students’ academic grades provided two criteria are met:

• Students are given a minimum of 48 hours to complete it.

• It is graded for quality, content/skill acquisition, and/or achievement towards the standards--and not merely completion.

If you have any questions, please contact a school administrator or me.  I can be reached at ssharkey@fallsburgcsd.net, or (845) 434-6800.