Evidence-Based Grading

Evidence-Based Grading in Raytown Quality Schools

Overview: What Is Evidence-Based Grading?

Evidence-Based Grading (EBG) is a grading approach that clearly communicates what students know and can do in relation to academic standards. Instead of combining academic performance with behavior, effort, or extra credit, EBG focuses on evidence of learning.

Our goal is simple. Grades should be accurate, fair, and meaningful. When families see a grade, it should clearly reflect a student’s level of understanding of the learning expectations for a course.

Evidence-Based Grading is used across Raytown Quality Schools to ensure consistency, clarity, and high expectations for all students.

Why Raytown Uses Evidence-Based Grading

Raytown Quality Schools uses Evidence-Based Grading because it better supports student learning and clearer communication with families.

Traditional grading systems often mix many factors together, which can make it difficult to understand what a grade actually represents. Evidence-Based Grading separates academic learning from behaviors so grades more accurately reflect mastery of standards.

This approach:

• Improves clarity for students and families
   
• Ensures grades are based on learning, not compliance
   
• Supports equity and fairness across classrooms
   
• Aligns with best practices in teaching and assessment
   
• Builds on the grading practices already in place at the elementary level
   

Evidence-Based Grading is not about lowering expectations. It is about being precise and honest about learning so students know exactly where they are and what comes next.

What a Grade Means in Raytown

Raytown Quality Schools uses a 4–3–2–1 proficiency scale to report learning.

• 4 indicates the student exceeds the standard and demonstrates advanced understanding
   
• 3 indicates the student meets the standard and is proficient
   
• 2 indicates the student is approaching proficiency and needs additional support
   
• 1 indicates the student is beginning and requires significant support
   

Proficiency, represented by a 3, is the learning target for all students. It reflects solid understanding and the ability to apply learning at the expected level. Students can earn a 4 when they demonstrate learning beyond the standard in meaningful ways.

What Grades Do and Do Not Include

Grades in Raytown Quality Schools are designed to reflect academic learning only.

Grades include:

• Evidence of learning tied directly to academic standards
   
• Performance on assessments aligned to learning goals
   
• Multiple opportunities to demonstrate understanding over time

Grades do not include:

• Behavior
   
• Effort
   
• Attendance
   
• Late penalties
   
• Extra credit
   

Work habits, behavior, and responsibility are still important and are communicated separately via our Profile of a Learner (forthcoming). This ensures academic grades remain clear and accurate indicators of learning.

How Evidence-Based Grading Supports Student Learning

Evidence-Based Grading helps students learn more effectively by making expectations clear and feedback meaningful.

Students benefit from:

• Clear learning targets and success criteria
   
• Feedback focused on what to improve and how
   
• Opportunities to learn from mistakes
   
• A better understanding of their own progress
   
• Increased ownership of their learning
   

When students know exactly what they are expected to learn, they are better equipped to take the next steps.

Evidence-Based Grading and Student Support

Evidence-Based Grading plays an important role in identifying and supporting students who need additional help.

Because grades are tied directly to specific standards, teachers can more easily identify areas where students are struggling. This allows for:

• More targeted instruction
   
• Timely Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions
   
• Better alignment between classroom instruction and support services
   
• Clear communication about student needs
   

This system helps ensure students receive the right support at the right time.

What Parents and Guardians Can Expect

Families can expect consistency and transparency across classrooms and schools.

Parents and guardians will see:

• Clearly communicated learning goals
   
• Rubrics or proficiency scales tied to standards
   
• Feedback focused on learning and improvement
   
• Gradebook information that reflects progress toward proficiency
   
• Consistent grading practices districtwide
   

If families have questions about grades, the best first step is to contact the classroom teacher, who can explain the evidence used to determine a student’s grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can students earn a 4?
Yes. A 4 is earned when a student demonstrates learning beyond the standard. Proficiency, represented by a 3, is the goal, not the ceiling.

What does reassessment look like?
Reassessment allows students to demonstrate improved understanding after additional learning and feedback. Reassessment practices are guided by clear expectations and vary by course.

Will this impact GPA or class rank?
Evidence-Based Grading is designed to fairly represent student learning. Schools continue to follow established processes for GPA and transcripts.

How often are grades updated?
Grades are updated regularly as new evidence of learning is collected. Families are encouraged to monitor progress throughout the term.

How is this different from traditional grading?
Traditional grading often combines learning, behavior, and compliance. Evidence-Based Grading focuses specifically on academic understanding.

Does this look the same in every grade level?
The core principles are consistent across the district, while specific practices are developmentally appropriate for elementary, middle, and high school students.

Evidence-Based Grading in Action

In Evidence-Based Grading classrooms, students receive clear feedback tied to learning goals and have opportunities to improve their understanding over time.

Teachers use evidence from classwork, assessments, and student demonstrations to determine grades. Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning, ask questions, and take ownership of their progress.

This approach emphasizes learning as a process, not a single moment.

Resources for Families

Families can access additional resources to learn more about Evidence-Based Grading, including:

• Family-friendly guides explaining proficiency scales
   
• Short videos explaining how grades are determined
   
• A glossary of common grading terms
   

These resources are designed to support understanding and partnership.

Our Commitment

Raytown Quality Schools is committed to grading practices that are clear, consistent, and focused on student learning.

We will continue to support teachers, communicate with families, and refine our practices to ensure Evidence-Based Grading serves students well. Our priority remains helping every student learn, grow, and succeed.