The Fires in Grading

In response to the challenges of transforming assessment and grading practices, this show offers educators and administrators insights and practical solutions to address common resistance points—or "fires"—in grading reform.The Fires in Grading Podcast is sponsored by Otus. Learn more: https://hubs.li/Q03StGb_0

The Fires in Grading is a education podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 33 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Unknown Host hosts The Fires in Grading, a education show with 33 episodes published.

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  Episode #34

  Episode 34: How Are Colleges and Universities Handling SBG?

  Oct 2, 202644 minS1

  In Episode 34 of Fires in Grading , Don, Becky, and Garth tackle one of the most common questions surrounding standards-based grading: “But what about college?” They’re joined by Sharona Krinsky and Robert Bosley, hosts of The Grading Podcast , to explore what is actually happening with grading in higher education. The conversation examines both sides of the college question, from how universities view students coming from standards-based systems to the growing movement among professors who are rethinking traditional grading practices themselves. The group also discusses reassessment, alternative grading, the difference between learning and point chasing, and whether our assumptions about “preparing students for college” are actually helping students become better learners.

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  Episode #33

  Episode 33: Gratitude to Those That Have Influenced Us

  Sep 18, 202640 minS1

  In Episode 33 of Fires in Grading , Don, Becky, and Garth reflect on three influential voices who helped shape their thinking about assessment and grading: Ken O’Connor, Tom Guskey, and Rick Wormeli. The team explores how each challenged traditional grading practices, influenced the standards-based grading movement, and continues to shape the work happening in schools today. More than a look back, this episode is a tribute to the ideas and people who continue to push educators to question, refine, and improve grading practices.

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  Episode #32

  Episode 32: What is the Principal's Role in Making Standards-Based Grading Successful?

  Sep 4, 202635 minS1

  The school year has just begun, and principals everywhere are balancing countless priorities while trying to lead meaningful instructional improvement. In this episode of Fires in Grading , Becky Peppler, Don Smith, and Garth Larson explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—questions in grading reform: What is the principal's role in making Standards-Based Grading successful? Together, they discuss how school leaders create the conditions for sustainable change, common leadership mistakes that unintentionally stall implementation, and practical ways principals can support teachers while keeping learning at the center. Along the way, Don shares insights from his new book, The Confidence to Lead , co-authored with Jenni Donohoo, and explains why leadership efficacy is essential to building a culture where both teachers and students can thrive.

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  Episode #31

  Episode 31: More Than Grades: Becky's Journey to Grading Reform

  Aug 21, 202634 minS1

  In this special episode of Fires in Grading , the hosts begin a new series that explores the personal journeys behind their passion for assessment and grading reform. Garth Larson and Don Smith sit down with Becky Peppler to discuss her path from classroom teacher to national consultant, the experiences that challenged her thinking about traditional grading, and the students who inspired her to seek a better way. Becky also shares the key lessons she's learned throughout her career, the influences that shaped her philosophy, and an inside look at her new book, Reassessment That Works . Whether you're just beginning your grading journey or leading change in your school, this episode offers an authentic look at the experiences that continue to fuel Becky's commitment to improving learning for every student.

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  Episode #30

  Episode 30: New Teachers, Old Habits: Protecting Your SBL Culture

  Aug 7, 202631 minS1

  In Episode 30 of Fires in Grading , Don, Becky, and Garth tackle one of the most overlooked challenges in grading reform: onboarding new teachers. While many districts invest significant time and effort into developing standards-based grading systems, far fewer create intentional processes to help new staff understand and sustain that work. The team explores how relying on mentors, assumptions, or “learning as you go” can lead to inconsistency, system drift, and the gradual erosion of a district’s grading philosophy. They discuss what effective onboarding should include, how leaders can preserve their grading culture through staff turnover, and why sustainability requires more than just a well-written handbook. If your district has been “doing the work” for several years, this episode will help you ensure that progress continues rather than slowly slipping away.

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