The 5 Ps of Starting and Sustaining Grading Reform

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/q6wpb124

Keywords:

grading reform, standards-based grading, educational leadership, implementation framework, change mangement

Abstract

In the world of grading reform, questions such as “How do we get started with grading reform?” and “Our teachers completed a book study––what's the next step?” are at the forefront of school leaders’ minds.  Engaging conference keynote addresses and multi-day seminars can help K-12 educators understand the need to improve grading practices; however, school leaders may need practical steps to start or sustain grading reform. These practical steps should be based upon current research in the field and supported through a cohesive set of actions. This article presents a 5-P Framework for starting and sustaining grading reform.

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Author Biographies

  • Matt Townsley

    MATT TOWNSLEY, EdD, is an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership in the Department of Learning, Leadership and Community at the University of Northern Iowa. His current research interests include educational leadership and classroom grading practices. Email: matt.townsley@uni.edu 

  • Joshua Kunnath

    JOSHUA KUNNATH, EdD, is an English teacher and instructional coach at Highland High School in Bakersfield, California. He also serves as editor-in-chief of the Journal of School Administration Research and Development. His current research interest is in grading reform. Email: joshkunnath@gmail.com 

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Published

2026-08-19

How to Cite

The 5 Ps of Starting and Sustaining Grading Reform. (2026). Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 11(S1), 63-73. https://doi.org/10.32674/q6wpb124

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