School systems nationwide have altered their grading systems to accommodate policy shifts toward equity and inclusion. While the move was seen as a solution to relieving disparities in the classroom, a new report shows that it may leave students without the knowledge they need. If school grading practices threaten your child, contact the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888-535-3686 now or visit us online. 

Equitable Grading Practices Leaves Little Learning Improvements  

A new study asserts that despite the push to absolve grading inequities in schools, the solutions of equitable grading practices “hamper expectations for students.” Researchers outline that some contribute to grade inflation and only give off the appearance that students retain more information. The report shows that grading practices like no-fail mandates, bans on homework, penalties for late work, and even cheating ultimately “reduce expectations and accountability for students.” 

Fortunately, the results haven't been brushed aside, as several school systems are moving toward implementing a two-pronged approach to grading systems. To ensure grading systems with fairness, transparency, and consistency, the report recommends that institutions and education-minded lawmakers combine the best of “traditional and equity-oriented reforms to strengthen academic rigor and eliminate biases.” However, until school systems shift from a top-down directive to student learning and rely on an individual-based approach, students risk not getting what they need to succeed after graduation. 

What Can Parents Do to Dispute Grades? 

With the fluctuation of grading systems nationwide, parents may be aware that their child's work and effort fail to match the grade they're given. Furthermore, their child could be graded compared to others, and not the work they've completed. 

Although school systems have processes for disputing grades, it's critical to understand how they work. There are more informal ways to dispute a grade, such as scheduling a parent-teacher conference and reviewing classroom standards and how your child has progressed. But when a misunderstanding continues, or the school administration steps in, more formal procedures take place, such as filing a complaint with the school system, which can lead to appearing before an administrative law judge to present evidence and testimony in defense of your child's education. 

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help? 

Parents may believe that retaining the assistance of a student defense attorney is too big of a step to take in defending their children. However, that's a common misconception. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team can benefit you in many ways. 

Our team understands how school districts enforce grading standards, including the provisions of state and federal pertaining to what your child is mandated to have in the classroom. Even before scheduling a parent-teacher conference, we will guide you through the appropriate correspondence, including answering questions before you seek a discussion. Furthermore, the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team will be by your side if the matter is referred to higher jurisdictions, all to protect your child's academic future. Call 888-535-3686 now or visit our online confidential consultation form, and we will contact you for your next steps.