Ability grouping, competitive grading, isolated subject area instruction and retention for non-achieving students is giving way to a philosophy of non-gradedness and a belief that all children can learn. In non-graded schools, grade level status is eliminated in order to focus on the individual. Non-competitive assessment replaces ABCDF grading. Non-graded schools build on diversity not sameness. This workshop is designed for all educators involved in creating schools where learners and learning are the focus.

Topics:

Compare and contrast the current system of educating children with one of non-gradedness

An operational definition of non-gradedness

What research says about non-gradedness

What a non-graded school looks like and how it is structured

Identify practices compatible with the philosophy of non-graded education

The importance of teacher teams and parental involvement

How to get started by applying the seven steps necessary to "switch" to a non-graded school structure