In this episode of Fires in Grading, we’re joined by special guest Ken O’Connor, “The Grade Doctor,” to explore how the words we choose as educators shape the culture of our classrooms. Are we reinforcing a focus on points and grades, or are we creating a learning-centered environment? Tune in for practical insights and reflections on how simple language shifts can make a big impact on student motivation and success.

In Episode 10 – “It Didn’t Work in the Neighboring District,” we tackle a common roadblock in grading reform: when skepticism sets in because another district’s efforts didn’t succeed. Together, they unpack why context matters, how to separate implementation from philosophy, and how to keep students at the center of every grading conversation.

Educators often debate whether letter grades should be abolished, but here’s the truth: the symbol itself isn’t the problem, it’s how we use it. In this episode of Fires in Grading, we dive into why fighting over A, B, C, or 1–4 misses the point, and how the real work lies in giving those symbols meaning through standards-based teaching and learning practices. Whether your school uses letters, numbers, or descriptors, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about what grades actually communicate.

Garth Larson is the Co-Founder and CEO of FIRST Educational Resources. He began his career as a high school English teacher and Associate Principal, later serving as an elementary principal and the Director of Learning for the Winneconne Community School District in Northeast Wisconsin. In 2015, he co-founded FIRST Educational Resources, aiming to enhance student achievement across the United States. Since then, over 2000 school districts worldwide have partnered with his company.

Becky Peppler is the Director of the FIRST Education STAGR Center, a division of FIRST Educational Resources. With over 18 years in public education, she is dedicated to helping schools navigate the challenges of grading and assessment reform to create systems that support student learning and growth. A former 6-12 Instructional Coach and science educator, Becky has played a pivotal role in guiding over one hundred schools and districts through full transitions to Standards-Based Grading.

Don Smith has 20 years of professional experience in public schools. Don previously served as the Director of Teaching and Learning for the Winneconne Community School District, in Wisconsin. Prior to that, Don was the Director of Teaching and Learning in the School District of Waupaca. Don also served as the Principal at Fond du Lac STEM Academy and Fond du Lac STEM Institute, as well as the District Assessment Coordinator for the Fond du Lac Area School District (WI).