90% Versus 89%

Summer is flying! As my rising seniors are completing their Common App and SSAR, I wanted to remind you about an important fact about grades. I’ve posted this sample Self-Reported Academic Record before, but the point bears repeating. Parents of all high school students: notice that there are no pluses and minuses on the grades. Before the school year starts, I’d have a conversation with your teen about the fact that a 90% is SO much better than an 89% in a class. When colleges see their grades, they’ll just see an A or a B. So, a 90% looks the same as a 99%. Students should start the year strong doing everything they can do to get the highest grade possible in each class. Don’t settle for an 89 when you can get a 91 with just a little more work. You’ll be glad you did so when it’s time to start working on those applications.