Implementing standards-based grading is more than changing a gradebook. It requires thoughtful planning, shared understanding and practical systems that support student learning. This two-day conference is designed for school and district teams who are ready to move beyond theory and focus on implementation.

Throughout six collaborative sessions, you'll explore the essential elements of successful standards-based grading, examine real examples from schools across the country and engage in meaningful planning time with your team. Every attendee will participate in every session, ensuring a shared experience that builds common understanding and momentum. You'll leave with practical tools, actionable next steps and the confidence to continue moving your work forward.

What Makes This Conference Different?

Every conference session is immediately followed by dedicated action planning time, giving your team the opportunity to:

• Reflect on your learning
• Discuss what it means for your school or district
• Begin developing an implementation plan
• Ask questions and receive feedback from the conference presenters
• Network with other schools also working on SBG
• Leave with meaningful work already completed

Rather than returning to school with pages of notes, you'll leave with a clearer plan and practical next steps to continue your implementation journey.

Session 1: The State of SBG: What's Working and What's Holding Schools Back
Standards-based grading has evolved, but many schools continue to face similar implementation challenges. Explore the lessons we've learned from schools across the country and discover practical insights that can help move your work forward.

Session 2: The Foundation of SBG: Doing the Right Work at the Right Time
Standards, learning targets and success criteria work together to create clarity, consistency and a shared understanding of student learning.

Session 3: Standards Aligned Assessments: Measuring What Matters
Meaningful grades begin with meaningful assessments. Discover practical strategies for designing standards aligned assessments that produce accurate evidence of student learning and proficiency.

Session 4: Grades That Actually Communicate Learning
What should a grade communicate? Explore grading practices that keep the focus on learning and ensure grades accurately reflect what students know and can do. 

Session 5: Teaching for Learning: Designing Instruction & Determining Proficiency
Effective grading starts long before students are assessed. Learn how thoughtful instructional design and evidence based decision making work together to support student learning and determine proficiency with confidence.

Session 6: Getting Buy In: Talking to Staff, Students and Families About SBG
Even the best grading practices require strong communication. Learn strategies for building understanding, addressing concerns and creating support for standards-based grading among staff, students and families.