[The following information was sent from UFT President Michael Mulgrew to DOE-employed members on April 28, 2020.]

As you continue to rise to the challenge of remote teaching, I want to share with you the grading policy that the Department of Education has adopted for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year.

As we work to get through this crisis, the DOE, in consultation with the UFT and parent groups, decided that a standardized grading policy was necessary this year. The policy it designed recognizes the work that students have done, both in the classroom and during distance learning, while being sensitive to the challenges that many of our students and their families have faced during this pandemic.

The policy does not penalize students who have not be able to participate fully in remote learning for reasons outside their control. All students who can’t demonstrate mastery or submit work will be assessed for targeted summer and fall support to get back on track. All middle and high school students who receive a grade of “Course in Progress” will be automatically enrolled in summer programming for intensive academic support.

These targeted interventions will be part of traditional summer school programming — they are not an extension of our school year.

Here are the highlights:

Kindergarten to Grade 5

• Students will be graded as “Meets Standards” or “Needs Improvement”

Grades 6 to 8

• Students will be graded as “Meets Standards,” “Needs Improvement” or “Course in Progress”

Grades 9 to 12

• Students will be graded on existing grading scales
• Students who require more time to show mastery will be graded as “Course in Progress” and enrolled in summer-fall support programs
• If receiving a passing letter grade, students have the option to convert to a “Pass” rating, leaving their GPA unaffected
• Students have until January 2021 to complete outstanding coursework.

See the DOE presentation

We think this new policy strikes the right balance by incorporating the concerns of parents and educators at all grade levels. We are here to support you if issues arise regarding the implementation of the grading policy at your school.

Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to your students at this difficult time.

Stay healthy and safe.