The grading system is divided into three major categories for successful achievement of the class goals. Every student’s proficiency/playing level will be determined each school year, according to the Instrumental Music Course of Study. A student may request a director to re-evaluate his/her playing level anytime during the school year. Each level evaluation must be completed within one week. After one week, the level evaluation begins again.

All students, except seniors, will do their level check the 4th nine weeks. The 4th nine weeks level check is optional for all seniors. Any student that passes Level V or higher after the 2nd semester begins will not be required to retest.

During the 1st nine weeks, the previous year’s proficiency level, playing test scores, written test scores, and a marching evaluation will be averaged accordingly to determine the student’s final grade. During the 2nd and 3rd nine weeks, the previous proficiency level, playing test scores, and written test scores will be averaged accordingly to determine the student’s final grade. The current proficiency level, playing test scores, and written test scores will be averaged accordingly to determine the student's final nine weeks grade.

The following points are earned by your playing proficiency.

Extra credit will be given for the following: additional levels passed and special projects. See director for details.

Music playing tests will sometimes be assessed by using a cassette tape recorded by the student. This prepared tape must be handed in as assigned. After an evaluation, the tape will be returned.

Grades will be determined using the following percentages:
Proficiency Level 50%
Playing and written tests 50 %
(marching evaluation during the 1st nine weeks is also used)

FLAG CORPS and MAJORETTE GRADES
The 9 weeks grade will be determined through the evaluation of the following criteria: auxiliary proficiency, routine accuracy and memorization, marching style and drill, attendance at rehearsals, and attendance at performances.