Norfolk grading policy under attack

NORFOLK, Va. - Norfolk City Councilman Paul Riddick called for schools Superintendent Dr. Stephen Jones to step down Tuesday, after Councilman Randy Wright started a discussinon of the new grading policy.

Wright told a council work session that he has fielded calls from teachers who say they are prepared to leave Norfolk schools if the revised grading policy remains in place. 

Norfolk initiated the procedure this year to make grading consistent across the school district, according to spokesperson Elizabeth Mather. She told WAVY.com the district is open to feedback and questions about the policy,which is in its first year.

Councilman Wright said he feels students are getting scores they did not earn and he feels its wrong.  Councilwoman Dr. Theresa Wibley said a 61 is still an F. "You're not giving people a free pass here." 

Mayor Paul Fraim suggested the Superintendent and school board members appear before the City Council to address their questions and concerns.  Mather said that's not a problem. She says anyone who has questions can ask them and get the answers they need.

Click HERE for Norfolk Public Schools 2009-2010 Grading Practices.