Remove A- from PWCS high school grading system
The Issue
In Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), the recent grading system changes are disproportionately harsh on students. The introduction of the A- grade dramatically affects our GPAs, resulting in undue stress and panic. An A carries the full value of a 4.0 GPA, but an A- brings it down to a 3.7. This disparity, while seemingly small, significantly impacts our scholarship opportunities, college admissions chances, and overall academic confidence.
We, the students of PWCS, put in countless hours of hard work and dedication to maintain high grades, especially those balancing rigorous AP and Dual Enrollment courses. Yet, the A- devalues our efforts, unfairly penalizing students who are on the cusp of excellence. It doesn’t make sense that a single percentage point—the difference between a 91% (a 3.7) and a 92% (a 4.0)—can have such a profound negative impact on our transcripts when we apply to competitive universities.
We are not asking for a complete overhaul of the grading system, but merely for the removal of the A- distinction on high school transcripts. This change would bring PWCS in line with other educational systems that recognize the entire A range (90-100%) as a unified achievement, avoiding unnecessary fragmentation in evaluating student performance.
Evidence suggests that such grading discrepancies lead to heightened stress levels, mental health issues, and burnout among youth. In fact, a study by the American Psychological Association found that high school students report stress levels higher than what adults typically experience. Micro-penalties like the A- contribute significantly to this stress by forcing students to obsess over a 1% margin.
By removing the A- grade, PWCS would demonstrate a commitment to fostering a more supportive and encouraging educational environment. This change would not only reduce student stress but also cultivate a healthier, more productive learning atmosphere.
We appeal to the Prince William County School Board and district administration to review and amend the grading policy. We need to reflect on the values that truly matter in education: the holistic development of every student. It’s time for PWCS to take a stand for students’ well-being.
Sign this petition to support the initiative for a fairer, more just grading system at PWCS high schools.
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The Issue
In Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), the recent grading system changes are disproportionately harsh on students. The introduction of the A- grade dramatically affects our GPAs, resulting in undue stress and panic. An A carries the full value of a 4.0 GPA, but an A- brings it down to a 3.7. This disparity, while seemingly small, significantly impacts our scholarship opportunities, college admissions chances, and overall academic confidence.
We, the students of PWCS, put in countless hours of hard work and dedication to maintain high grades, especially those balancing rigorous AP and Dual Enrollment courses. Yet, the A- devalues our efforts, unfairly penalizing students who are on the cusp of excellence. It doesn’t make sense that a single percentage point—the difference between a 91% (a 3.7) and a 92% (a 4.0)—can have such a profound negative impact on our transcripts when we apply to competitive universities.
We are not asking for a complete overhaul of the grading system, but merely for the removal of the A- distinction on high school transcripts. This change would bring PWCS in line with other educational systems that recognize the entire A range (90-100%) as a unified achievement, avoiding unnecessary fragmentation in evaluating student performance.
Evidence suggests that such grading discrepancies lead to heightened stress levels, mental health issues, and burnout among youth. In fact, a study by the American Psychological Association found that high school students report stress levels higher than what adults typically experience. Micro-penalties like the A- contribute significantly to this stress by forcing students to obsess over a 1% margin.
By removing the A- grade, PWCS would demonstrate a commitment to fostering a more supportive and encouraging educational environment. This change would not only reduce student stress but also cultivate a healthier, more productive learning atmosphere.
We appeal to the Prince William County School Board and district administration to review and amend the grading policy. We need to reflect on the values that truly matter in education: the holistic development of every student. It’s time for PWCS to take a stand for students’ well-being.
Sign this petition to support the initiative for a fairer, more just grading system at PWCS high schools.
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Petition created on September 24, 2026