In 2016, the Tennessee General Assembly passed legislation requiring the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) to establish a letter-grading system for public schools. Implementation of this measure was delayed by testing administration challenges and the impact of COVID-19, but school-specific A-F letter grades were released for the first time on December 21, 2023.
This document addresses Frequently Asked Questions regarding this rating system.
Why was the A-F rating system created?
The Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) established an A-F rating system for schools at the direction of state lawmakers. The goal of school letter grades is to provide families and stakeholders with clear information about school performance.
How are these grades calculated?
Up to four indicators are included in each school’s calculation:
- Overall success rate for achievement;
- Overall growth;
- Growth for the lowest performing 25% of students in the school; and
- A college and career readiness indicator (specifically for high schools).
Where can I find the letter grade for my student's school?
On December 19, a letter grade dashboard will be publicly available on the state’s website.
Will there be negative consequences for schools that receive failing grades? How will these grades affect the amount of funding received by a particular school?
Letter grade results will not be a factor in driving any low performance designations.
Did the public provide input about the creation of this system?
In 2023, TDOE hosted 10 town hall meetings to allow public comment about the system, and public
comments were also received electronically. Public comment submissions are available.
How will letter grades impact schools in KCS?
School letter grades provide insight, but they are only one measure of the work taking place within our schools. Principals will share more information regarding their school letter grades after Winter Break. We encourage families to take these communications as an opportunity to look beyond letter grades at the work schools are doing each and every day.
Knox County Schools will remain committed to the district’s four priorities: Excellence in Foundational Skills, Great Educators in Every School, Career Empowerment and Preparation, and Success for Every Student.
I don’t believe these grades accurately reflect the performance of my student’s school. Who should I contact to share feedback?
The letter-grade system was created by state officials, and feedback will be most helpful when directed to members of the Tennessee General Assembly or the Tennessee Department of Education.