San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) has scrapped its controversial “Grading for Equity” initiative just one day after unveiling it, following swift backlash from parents, educators, and political leaders. The DEI grading plan aimed to overhaul traditional grading by excluding homework and attendance from final grades, allowing test retakes, and lowering grade thresholds—permitting students to earn an A with 80% and a D with just 21%.
Superintendent Maria Su announced the pilot program on May 28, targeting 14 high schools and 70 teachers, with a $172,000 budget for training. The plan intended to address disparities affecting lower-income students by minimizing barriers like lack of homework time or unreliable transportation.
However, the initiative faced immediate criticism. Parents and politicians, including Mayor Daniel Lurie and Representative Ro Khanna, argued that it lowered academic standards and undermined student effort. Khanna stated, “Giving A’s for 80% & no homework is not equity—it betrays the American Dream and every parent who wants more for their kids.”
In response to the outcry, Superintendent Su suspended the plan, citing widespread “misinformation” and the need for greater community engagement. She emphasized, “We want to make sure any changes benefit our students. I have decided not to pursue this strategy for next year to ensure we have time to meaningfully engage the community.”
