Concerns About Grading Inequities at GLHS Surface Again

Over the past six years, one issue has come up repeatedly from pretty much everyone: inequitable grading practices at GLHS.

This issue is rather a lack of grading policy, procedures, and practices, giving some students the upper hand and others struggling just to get by with adequate grades. Something that connects to Administration and possibly the contract with the BHEA.

A November 3, 2025 email from the Governor Livingston High School PTO officially addresses the “inconsistent grading practices at GL.” The email cited “disparities [that] can significantly impact student averages, GPA, honor roll eligibility, athletic participation, and even college applications.” The email included a survey in which parents and students were asked to provide the specific section for a core area of study (English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies) and identify the number of assignments in PowerSchool and the number of assignments in PowerSchool for which a grade has been recorded (as of October 28, 2025). With the first marking period ending November 5, the survey also aimed to shed light on the number of outstanding grades close to the marking period end. Although the survey was circulated via private text messaging as early as October 30, it was reported that as of November 5 the survey had been closed.

To provide some context on what grading inequities mean, take, for example, two sophomore students enrolled in Chemistry. Student A has Teacher A, and Student B has Teacher B. Over the course of the semester, Teacher A has four tests and 24 homework assignments. Teacher B has three tests and 16 homework assignments. While the curriculum is the same for both Student A and B, over the course of a semester, Student A would have a greater probability of achieving a higher grade in the course because of the additional opportunities to submit work, all of which is graded and weighted, contributing to the final semester grade.

The grading inconsistencies at GLHS are just the tip of the iceberg, and it has been refreshing to see a group of someones (other than NJ21st) advocate for more fair, equitable, and reasonable grading.

Earlier this year, we reported on the issue of GPA inconsistencies among GLHS students greatly affecting their future….

June 2025 Article on GPA inconsistencies

February 2025 GPA College Admissions Concerns