We, the undersigned, want the current grading scale used at Cumberland High School to remain unchanged. We feel it is in the best interests of all students if the grading system remains with traditional letter grades of A,B,C,F with plus and minus incrementations. This is not resistance to change. We are logical thinking adults who want the best education with a fair and accurate grading system for our students. We have educated ourselves on all aspects of Standards Based Grading and Reporting and based on data collected we have determined that: 1. In order for Cumberland High School to continue attracting all types of learners, we need a grading system that is fair to ALL students, ALL of the time. We will not accept a grading scale that does not benefit all students. 2. Four grades of achievement (4,3,2,1) do not provide motivation, nor do they allow for accurate discernment of achievement levels among students. Evidence has shown that these levels, where meeting the standard (3) is the objective, could reduce merit based scholarships awarded to CHS students moving on to college. 3. We need a grading system that does not encourage mediocrity or procrastination in any of our students. "Meeting the standard"of content knowledge is not enough. CHS has a responsibility to provide character education as well as content education. CHS has a responsibility to prepare ALL students for the next step after high school - college, career training, or work.Time management skills should be encouraged.