In this special episode of Fires in Grading, the hosts begin a new series that explores the personal journeys behind their passion for assessment and grading reform. Garth Larson and Don Smith sit down with Becky Peppler to discuss her path from classroom teacher to national consultant, the experiences that challenged her thinking about traditional grading, and the students who inspired her to seek a better way. Becky also shares the key lessons she's learned throughout her career, the influences that shaped her philosophy, and an inside look at her new book, Reassessment That Works. Whether you're just beginning your grading journey or leading change in your school, this episode offers an authentic look at the experiences that continue to fuel Becky's commitment to improving learning for every student.

In Episode 30 of Fires in Grading, Don, Becky, and Garth tackle one of the most overlooked challenges in grading reform: onboarding new teachers. While many districts invest significant time and effort into developing standards-based grading systems, far fewer create intentional processes to help new staff understand and sustain that work. The team explores how relying on mentors, assumptions, or “learning as you go” can lead to inconsistency, system drift, and the gradual erosion of a district’s grading philosophy. They discuss what effective onboarding should include, how leaders can preserve their grading culture through staff turnover, and why sustainability requires more than just a well-written handbook. If your district has been “doing the work” for several years, this episode will help you ensure that progress continues rather than slowly slipping away.

One of the biggest concerns schools raise during grading reform is:

“What about special education?”

In Episode 29 of Fires in Grading, Becky, Don, and Garth are joined by special guest Danica Lewis to unpack the complicated and often misunderstood relationship between special education and standards-based grading.

Together, the team explores common misconceptions around IEPs, accommodations, modified expectations, grading practices, and student support systems. The conversation focuses on how standards-based learning can actually create greater clarity and communication for students, teachers, and families when implemented thoughtfully.

Whether you are a classroom teacher, interventionist, administrator, or special education teacher, this episode provides a practical perspective on ensuring grades communicate learning while still honoring student needs and supports.

Learn more about our sponsors:

Otus: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hubs.li/Q03StGb_0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

STAGR Center:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://firsteducation-us.com/stagr⁠⁠⁠