I have long believed that the primary challenge in implementing more responsible grading and reporting practices in schools isn't that teachers and students aren't ready for change. It's that schools have struggled to accurately explain the research and rationale for change to parents and policymakers. That's why this book is a game-changer. Written in approachable language and addressing the common concerns that stakeholders beyond schools hold about 21st century grading practices, Townsley and Lang have created a text that can be used with parents and policymakers to build support for the grading practices that our students deserve.
— William M. Ferriter, Career Classroom Teacher, Author and Professional Development Provider
You don't know what you don't know. Matt and Chad have literally given parents the answer key to having tough conversations with their students, teachers, and other parents about what grading should and should not look like. The research will anchor you, but the stories take you to the car, couch, classroom, or district office or wherever your conversations take place with the confidence you will need to help understand the true meaning of what matters in school.
— Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, author of "Lead From Where You Are" and "Hacking Leadership"
LEADERS! COMMUNITY MEMBERS! EDUCATORS! This book is a guide book for you and your community to understand standards based learning. The writers clearly explain the benefits of standards-based learning to parents in a way that is easy to understand with an emphasis on the why behind this type of reporting versus traditional grades. A quick read that could be given to any new family to your school and/or used as a "one book, one community" read over the summer. Many, many, practical examples of how standards-based learning might look in your community but written in a way that anyone can understand. AND if you are a leader or educator that is unsure of how standards-based learning can transform your classroom, this book is for YOU!
— Dr. Kristen Paul, Director of Social Emotional Learning, Leadership Coach and Adjunct Professor
An essential guide for parents navigating the world of modern education, this book demystifies the transition from traditional to '21st century grading practices'. Townsley and Lang brilliantly blend research and practical scenarios to equip parents for meaningful conversations about their children's learning. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone seeking clarity on the evolving world of K-12 grading and assessment.
— Michael J. Maffoni, Author, Educator, and Consultant