Louisiana moves to 10-point grading scale in public schools

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Louisiana has recently adopted a new 10-point grading scale, transitioning from the previous 7-point system due to House Bill 424. Bill Author, Shreveport Representative Tammy Phelps says this change aims to standardize grading practices and align Louisiana more closely with many other states.

“Most of the nation is on a 10-point scale.  All of our colleges are, and so we just wanted to streamline it to where it wouldn’t be so difficult to try to have those calculations accurate.”

This shift provides students with a broader range to achieve higher grades, potentially enhancing their GPAs and academic performance. Phelps says it also aims to create a more equitable grading system across the state, making it easier for students who transfer between schools or states.

“We’re not lowering the bar, the standard.  Pretty much it’s just an equal playing field because of colleges across the nation.”

For students, this change means increased opportunities for higher grades, clearer grading standards, and simplified transcript evaluations for college applications. Phelps says she hopes the new standard will allow Louisiana to be more competitive when it comes to comparing Louisiana’s education rankings with the rest of the country.

“Sometimes Louisiana wants to be an outlier in higher standards but is that beneficial?”

Phelps says despite these benefits, the importance of hard work, early identification of struggles, and seeking help remains paramount for academic success and resilience in life.

Under the old system, the grading scale was:

  • A: 100-93
  • B: 92-85
  • C: 84-77
  • D: 76-70
  • F: Below 70

The new 10-point scale is as follows:

  • A: 100-90
  • B: 89-80
  • C: 79-70
  • D: 69-60
  • F: Below 60

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