GPAs, summative, formative and learning standards—these terms can sometimes feel overwhelming, but they’re all tools to help students measure their academic growth and learning. In Tacoma Public Schools, grades and GPAs do matter, but they are only one part of a bigger picture. Here’s what you need to know about GPA, grades, and how they fit into a student’s educational journey.

A quick vocabulary lesson

Grade Point Average (GPA) is a single number that represents the average of a student’s grades over a semester and the year. Each letter grade a student receives is assigned a point value, and GPA is calculated as an average of those points. GPAs provide a quick snapshot of a student’s academic performance across all classes. Review TPS grading scales for grades 6-12 .

Students have the right to make mistakes and revise their work

Students are allowed to retake a quiz or assessment, revise an assignment, or correct past work at least once within 10 days of receiving a grade. TPS revised the grading policy last year to ensure a more equitable grading practices for all students.

Within 10 days of receiving their grade, retakes, revisions, or corrections are worth the same maximum grade as the original.

Additionally, students have up to 10 days to turn in late work without penalty or reduction of grade or points. After 10 days, grades may decrease on the scale.

Grades are based on a student’s understanding of the Washington State Learning Standards. These standards outline what students are expected to know and do for each subject at each grade level. Grades do not reflect school absences, late arrival, student behavior issues or discipline.  Learn more about grading.

Tools for students and families

Prior to receiving report cards, students and families can monitor academic progress for each class in the online Grade Book using StudentVUE or ParentVUE. Both platforms give an overview of current grades, assignments and progress, allowing families to work together to support academic success. Monitoring the Grade Book is the best way to know student progress in each course prior to report cards.

Students in grades 3-12 can access free tutoring 24-hours, seven days a week. Students can access tutors through chat or a voice call in less than a minute without an appointment. All sessions are recorded so students can review their information on their own or refer back to it as needed.

GPA and College Admissions

While GPA is only one part of a college application, it does hold weight. Colleges use GPA as one of several ways to evaluate an applicant's academic consistency and readiness for college-level work. In TPS, partnerships with colleges and universities help ensure that students have access to postsecondary opportunities. Each school has different GPA requirements, with ranges from 2.7 to 3.3, reflecting each institution's standards and expectations.

But college admissions officers look at much more than just GPA. They consider extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and sometimes interviews. That means students can demonstrate who they are beyond their grades—things like leadership, community involvement and unique talents all make a difference.