Growth not grades

Grow Beyond Grades and gotLearning are teaming up to offer an essay contest for high school and college students. In addition to winning a cash prize, student essays will be considered for inclusion in a forthcoming book. Teachers, administrators, and caregivers: share widely with interested students and on X, LinkedIn, or Facebook. (Or just copy the url and post where you post!)

Also, feel free to plaster your town or school with posters!

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How have grades—or the experience of learning without them—influenced your learning, growth, or personal journey?

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Guidelines

Essay ideas: In a 1000-2500 word essay, explore the theme of "Growth, Not Grades."

Essays do not need to address all of the topics listed below; they are simply ideas. Although your essay may include research, we want you to center your own experience learning with or without grades. Consider sharing a compelling anecdote or narrative then zoom out to a larger point. Many of the pieces on our blog provide good models of this approach.

Consider one or more of the following prompts to guide your response:

  • How have grades, tests, GPA, and/or measurement of learning impacted your learning and personal growth?

  • What alternative(s) to grading have you experienced that better supported your learning?

  • How can students, educators, and institutions shift the focus from grades to genuine growth, agency, curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and development?

  • Share personal experiences, observations, and reflections both the impact of grades and/or on your experiences learning without them.

Eligibility: Open to all high school and college students.

Essay Guidelines:

  • Word Count: 1000-2500 words.

  • Citations: If you use external sources, please cite them using a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

  • Originality: Essays must be original work.

Submission Deadline: Friday, April 18, 2025

Judging Criteria:

  • Clarity and Focus: How well does the essay address the theme and prompt? Are any anecdotes vivid and compelling?

  • Depth of Analysis: Does the essay provide thoughtful insights and reflections?

  • Organization and Structure: Is the essay well-organized and easy to follow, balancing storytelling with argumentation?

  • Use of Evidence: Does the essay effectively use personal experiences, observations, and/or research to support its claims?

  • Writing Quality: Is the essay well-written, with correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation?

  • Images: Any embedded images must be high-quality, high-definition, and either owned by the writer or free to use.

Prizes:

  • First Place: $300

  • Second Place: $200

  • Third Place: $100

Contact: If you have any questions, feel free to email us!