Overview of New Mexico Grading Policy
New Mexico’s grading policy aims to provide a fair and consistent assessment of students’ academic performance. The state emphasizes the importance of transparency, equity, and supporting student growth. Grades are used to evaluate students’ understanding of the material, mastery of skills, and readiness for future educational challenges.
Grade Scale
New Mexico uses a standard letter grade scale to assess students’ performance. The grading chart below illustrates the percentage ranges for each grade:
| Letter Grade | Percentage Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A | 90-100% | Excellent |
| B | 80-89% | Good |
| C | 70-79% | Satisfactory |
| D | 60-69% | Needs Improvement |
| F | 0-59% | Failing |
Mastery Scale
New Mexico also utilizes a mastery scale to evaluate students’ proficiency in specific subjects or skills. The mastery scale focuses on students’ ability to demonstrate understanding and application of the material.
| Mastery Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced | Exceeds grade-level expectations |
| Proficient | Meets grade-level expectations |
| Basic | Approaching grade-level expectations |
| Below Basic | Below grade-level expectations |
Standards-Based Grading
Standards-based grading (SBG) in New Mexico is designed to provide detailed insights into students’ progress on state standards. This approach separates academic achievement from other factors like behavior and effort, ensuring that grades reflect actual learning.
| Performance Level | Description |
|---|---|
| 4 | Exceeds Standard |
| 3 | Meets Standard |
| 2 | Approaching Standard |
| 1 | Below Standard |
FAQs
Here are the 10 most frequently asked questions about New Mexico’s grading policy:
- What is the purpose of the grading policy?
The grading policy aims to provide a clear and fair assessment of students’ academic performance and growth. - How are grades calculated?
Grades are calculated based on students’ performance in assignments, tests, projects, and participation. - What is the difference between the grade scale and the mastery scale?
The grade scale provides a traditional letter grade based on percentage ranges, while the mastery scale evaluates students’ proficiency in specific subjects or skills. - How does standards-based grading differ from traditional grading?
Standards-based grading focuses on students’ progress on state standards, separating academic achievement from behavior and effort. - Can students retake assessments to improve their grades?
Policies on retaking assessments may vary by district, but many schools allow retakes to encourage mastery of the material. - How are parents informed about their child’s progress?
Parents receive regular progress reports and report cards, and they can also communicate with teachers through parent-teacher conferences and online portals. - What support is available for struggling students?
Schools offer various support services, including tutoring, counseling, and intervention programs, to help students succeed. - How are grades used in high school graduation requirements?
Grades are a key factor in determining eligibility for graduation, alongside other requirements like standardized test scores and completed credits. - What is the impact of grades on college admissions?
Grades are an important aspect of college admissions, as they reflect students’ academic readiness and performance. - How can students improve their grades?
Students can improve their grades by staying organized, seeking help when needed, and consistently completing assignments and studying for exams.
Resources
Here are some valuable resources related to New Mexico’s grading policy:
- New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED): The official site for state education policies and guidelines. NMPED Website
- Parent and Family Engagement: Resources and tips for parents to support their children’s education. Parent Engagement
- Assessment and Accountability: Information on state assessments and accountability measures. Assessment and Accountability
Grading Policy for Schools in New Mexico