Since the implementation of the new grading policy at Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS), we've witnessed an unsettling rise in anxiety among our students, unexpected declines in grades, and an alarming number of students on the brink of failure. This new policy places disproportionate weight on tests and major assignments, while disregarding the tremendous value of daily work, regular practice, and ongoing student development.

Rockingham County Public Schools implemented a new grading policy for the 2026–2027 school year:

• K–5: 20% practice, 30% progress, and 50% performance
• Grades 6–8: 10% practice, 30% progress, and 60% performance
• Grades 9–12: 30% practice/progress and 70% performance

We support consistency and academic rigor, but tests, benchmarks, projects, and other major assignments now carry much more weight than daily work and practice. One low score can dramatically affect a student’s grade, GPA, eligibility, and future opportunities.

Additional concerns include zeros for missing work, no minimum grade floor, graded benchmarks, and reassessment opportunities that are not guaranteed. The policy may especially affect students with IEPs, 504 Plans, learning differences, test anxiety, or limited English proficiency.

Teachers also face increased grading demands. A special-area teacher serving approximately 650 students could be responsible for 5,850 graded entries in one nine-week period, taking time away from instruction and student support.

Families and educators are already reporting increased anxiety, unexpectedly low grades, and more students at risk of failing.

We ask RCPS to review the data, gather feedback from students and educators, reconsider the grading weights, provide fair reassessment opportunities, evaluate the use of zeros and benchmarks, and reduce excessive teacher workloads.

An open letter is linked HERE for you to read. This letter will be shared with the school board. We also encourage parents, guardians, students, teachers, and staff to attend the school board meetings. There is one this Monday at Rockingham Academy at 7 PM.

Make your voice heard!   

Please sign this petition asking RCPS and the School Board to promptly review and revise the new grading policy.

Note to RCPS teachers, staff, and administrators: To protect your anonymity, you may sign this letter simply as "RCPS Teacher," "RCPS Staff," "RCPS Administrator," “RCPS Student”, etc., rather than using your name.