An analysis of grade point averages indicates that, generally, the highest grade inflation occurs in the lowest achieving schools. This is suggestive of low expectations for those students who most need to have higher expectations. Schools with grade inflation tend to reward low quality work and grades may not reflect actual learning levels. The Elmwood Park CUSD 401 grade point average for the 2000-2001 senior class was calculated at 2.55. The mean (average) GPA for the cohort of similar student populations is 2.6, and the effectiveness level is 2.4. The Senior class GPA approaches the effectiveness level.
An analysis of student performance data indicates that slight grade inflation exists in the Elmwood Park CUSD 401. ACT scores this year were below the mean and effectiveness levels, and performance on the ITBS in reading and mathematics was also below both the mean and effectiveness levels in most grades. However, the grade point average is between the mean and effectiveness level, suggesting an awareness in the district of the need for grades to be congruent with performance. To achieve effectiveness for overall Grade Point Average, the district should continue or establish the following practices:
The benefits of rewarding high quality work and holding high expectations for all students is generally evidenced in lower overall grade point average, higher performance on college entrance examinations and other performance assessment measures, as well as capacity to achieve at higher levels in Advanced Placement and other rigorous academic programs.
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