COVID-19: New grading options

By Caleb Betterton - Managing Editor

Rose State College has decided to offer options when it comes to its grading system for the spring semester. The announcement was made by Rose President Dr. Jeanie Webb.
    “We will allow students to choose between a standard A-F letter or take a pass/no pass option,” Webb provided through a campus-wide email.
    This is only optional for students whose classes were moved online because of COVID-19 following spring break; all other classes will remain an A-F standard grade. 
    This new option will help students who might struggle with online classes or students who might have other problems facing them during this time that could cause them to receive a lower than desired grade. This option can help students maintain their GPA. 
    “I think it’s a good idea considering how chaotic some of our lives have become,” said English major Heidi Stewart.  
    Students will get to make this choice after their professor has posted their final grade of the semester. Professors will post grades May 18. Students will have until noon on May 22 to request a P/NP grade option. To request the P/NP option, students must email their professor through their Raider email account before the May 22 deadline.  
    Some things for students to think about: Some degree-required classes may not allow for a P/NP option. Also, this could affect financial aid. Students should think about their future education and how it could affect applications or scholarships. 
    “Students needing a program, credit towards their degree, requirement for subsequent classes or any other requirement, should not opt for the P grade,” Jeff Caldwell, Vice President of Academic Affairs, provided via email. 
    Rose State officials recommend that before making this decision students talk to their academic adviser, as well as the financial aid office.

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