The SFDR Board Meeting held on February 24, 2025 addressed many issues: most notably, a change in GPA ranking starting with the incoming class of 2029. This issue was brought up and debated by board members present at the meeting and has surfaced a variety of differing opinions, both negative and positive.

This newly implemented GPA system will consist of earned credits being calculated based only on the fifteen credits that are earned from core classes, math, science, history and english. 

Currently, students are ranked based on twenty-two credits, sometimes even twenty-six in certain cases, but this new policy is aimed to change that. This policy will also exclude grades and credits earned from summer school in college level classes that aren’t directly offered at DRHS. 

“I think it’s fair [to alter the GPA system] so that students can pursue what they are passionate about and not take into consideration the points and ranking,” Social Studies teacher Brittany Mercer stated when prompted on the matter. 

Ms. Mercer’s opinion highlights one of the main arguments supporters cite. They suggest the policy will get rid of the unfair advantage students who may not be able to afford taking those classes or are not given the opportunity to do so face as a result of the current GPA system.

However, this is not the unanimous perspective. There are many differing opinions on the policy change among both staff and students. Even parents have shared their opinions on the matter.

Ultimately, this policy change will start with the incoming Freshman and will not affect Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors next year.