MASSACHUSETTS EDUCATION COMMISSIONER REAFFIRMS STATE'S RECOMMENDATION OF CREDIT-NO CREDIT GRADING

 At Governor Baker's press conference today announcing the closure of schools through the end of the year, Education Commissioner Jeff Riley, in his Q&A with reporters, about 38 minutes into the conference, reaffirmed that state's recommendation to all school districts that they go with "credit-no credit" grading.  He was referring to his letter of March 26, 2020.  See the excerpt immediately below.   

Let the AB leadership (Superintendent Peter Light, and the School Committee) know that you agree. Email plight@abschools.org and abrsc@abschools.org.  Also, continue to share this petition!

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News from Commissioner Jeffrey C. Riley & the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
On the Desktop – March 26, 2020

Remote Learning Recommendations During COVID-19 School Closures

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Feedback on student work and grading:

·         To the extent practicable, teachers should provide feedback on student work completed at home. That said, if districts and schools have not already implemented policies regarding credit-bearing courses (determining credit for academic work at home), we strongly recommend that academic content be graded as “credit/no credit” so as to incentivize continuous learning while acknowledging the challenging situation we face. Non-credit bearing courses, such as those for elementary and middle school students, could incorporate other incentives to keep students motivated to continue their learning. 

·         Before moving forward with any determinations of “no credit,” we strongly urge districts and schools to consider whether the students have had equitable access to learning opportunities during this closure, keeping in mind the variety of technology, health, disability, and language challenges that could occur."