A new grading system has been implemented for Washington High School students. The school is updating their grading practices for the current school year with the goal being to give students, families, and teachers a clearer picture of academic progress.

Instead of including homework done at home or extra credit like signed forms or participation points, grades will now focus on assessments, in-class work, and quick checks for understanding. 

When asked why the school decided to implement these grading system changes, High school Principal Ed Rathjen explained, “We really do want to focus on the learning in the classroom, which is a little bit of a change. It’s not so important about gathering points anymore, we just want to make sure that the students are learning, and making sure that they learn the standards that the state have set up for us.”  

The shift aims to ensure that report cards reflect real learning, help teachers tailor instruction, and give parents a more accurate view of their child’s progress.