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Evidence-Based Grading

 What Is Evidence-Based Grading (EBG)?

Evidence-Based Grading (EBG) is a way of reporting student progress that prioritizes what students know and are able to do. Rather than assigning a single overall score based on a mix of academic performance, homework completion, extra credit, or behavior, EBG focuses on student learning tied directly to academic standards. This approach gives families, students, and teachers clearer information about progress and readiness for the next level.

With EBG, grades are not a mystery. They represent evidence—real demonstrations of learning—gathered over time and aligned to what students are expected to learn in each subject area.

What Is a Proficiency Scale?

A proficiency scale is a tool used to clearly define what success looks like for each academic standard. These scales typically use a 4-point system:

  • 4 – Exceeds Expectations: The student independently applies and extends learning beyond grade-level standards.
     
  • 3 – Meets Expectations: The student demonstrates mastery of the grade-level standard.
     
  • 2 – Approaching Expectations: The student shows partial understanding and is progressing toward mastery.
     
  • 1 – Beginning: The student is starting to develop understanding with significant support.
     

This scale helps teachers give targeted feedback and helps families understand exactly where their child is in the learning process—and what comes next.

Elementary Families Are Already Familiar

Evidence-Based Grading is not new to Raytown Quality Schools. In fact, it has been the grading practice in elementary schools (grades K–5) for many years. Our youngest learners have benefited from clear, consistent reporting that highlights their growth and helps guide support from both teachers and families.

Coming to Middle School in 2025–2026

Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, all Raytown middle schools (grades 6–8) will transition to Evidence-Based Grading. This change will align middle school report cards with the elementary report card format, making the experience more consistent across grade levels.

Parents and guardians of middle schoolers will notice the shift starting with the Quarter 1 grade card. Instead of traditional letter grades, you’ll see proficiency marks based on your child’s learning progress for each essential standard in their courses.

Why This Matters

This change ensures that every grade your child receives tells the story of their learning—not just how they performed on one test or if they turned in all their homework. It’s about progress, mastery, and readiness for what’s next.

By focusing on evidence and standards, Raytown Quality Schools is committed to fair, accurate, and meaningful reporting that supports every learner.

If you have questions or want to learn more, we will be sharing resources, sample grade cards, and opportunities to engage with our schools in the coming months. We’re excited about this next step in supporting student success—because every learner deserves clear, actionable feedback on their growth.