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New grading system causes controversy at Windermere High School in Orange County

By Michael Lopardi
By Michael Lopardi
A new grading system at Windermere High School in Orange County has some students and parents up in arms over what they call an overemphasis on testing at the expense of other coursework.
Under the system initially, 80 percent of a student’s final grade would come from testing, while the remaining 20 percent would come from quizzes.
Homework does not count for anything in a student’s final grade under the grading system.
On Thursday, Windermere High School principal Doug Guthrie decided to change the ratio to 70/30.
Homework does indirectly apply to final grades, as it has to be completed if a student wants to retake a test.
Still, the major emphasis on testing has caused stress for students.
“It’s hard to keep all your grades up when, you know, it’s basically all tests,” student Cole Wilson said.
Student Bailey Shelton would like to see the percentages spread out a little more evenly.
“I’d like to change it, maybe like 60-40,” she said. “That would be better.”
In reaction to the grading system, a petition was started on change.org, which has already been signed more than 900 times.
Students who spoke to Channel 9 about the grading system said they weren’t looking for a free pass but just wanted to make sure their grades accurately reflect their mastery of a subject.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — “I would like it changed just to make it easier, but if it’s got to be this way, it’s fine,” Wilson said.

Guthrie's full statement made to Channel 9 Thursday on the grading system:

"I have surveyed the teachers and they are in agreement to change the percentages for WHS from 80/20 to 70/30. Also, students who take AP courses who show mastery by scoring a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP tests in the spring will have their Final Grade raised to an 'A' if it was not prior to the results. WHS also offers retakes to students after some form of remediation decided upon by the course’s Professional Learning Committee (PLC).

Colleges and universities do not just look at a student’s GPA. They also look at class rank within a school, SAT/ACT Scores, AP/IB Honors classes, and a recalculated GPA based on only core subjects.

A strong consideration as well by colleges and universities is showing grades that represent strong effort and an upward trend. Slightly lower grades in a rigorous program are preferred to all A’s in less-challenging courses. Passionate involvement in a few activities, demonstrating leadership, initiative, impact, and a focus all factor in to student success. A well-written essay that provides insight into a student’s personality, values, and goals. Many colleges set aside spaces for students who may not meet traditional criteria but will add to the class diversity. Geographic location, racial or ethnic background, extenuating or unusual life circumstances, and experience living or studying overseas may all be influential. Evidence suggests that in some cases applying 'early decision' may also increase the chances of admission."

Cox Media Group

Michael Lopardi

Michael Lopardi

Michael Lopardi joined Eyewitness News as a general assignment reporter in April 2015.

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