In Episode 33 of Fires in Grading, Don, Becky, and Garth reflect on three influential voices who helped shape their thinking about assessment and grading: Ken O’Connor, Tom Guskey, and Rick Wormeli. The team explores how each challenged traditional grading practices, influenced the standards-based grading movement, and continues to shape the work happening in schools today. More than a look back, this episode is a tribute to the ideas and people who continue to push educators to question, refine, and improve grading practices.

The school year has just begun, and principals everywhere are balancing countless priorities while trying to lead meaningful instructional improvement. In this episode of Fires in Grading, Becky Peppler, Don Smith, and Garth Larson explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—questions in grading reform: What is the principal's role in making Standards-Based Grading successful?

Together, they discuss how school leaders create the conditions for sustainable change, common leadership mistakes that unintentionally stall implementation, and practical ways principals can support teachers while keeping learning at the center. Along the way, Don shares insights from his new book, The Confidence to Lead, co-authored with Jenni Donohoo, and explains why leadership efficacy is essential to building a culture where both teachers and students can thrive.

In this special episode of Fires in Grading, the hosts begin a new series that explores the personal journeys behind their passion for assessment and grading reform. Garth Larson and Don Smith sit down with Becky Peppler to discuss her path from classroom teacher to national consultant, the experiences that challenged her thinking about traditional grading, and the students who inspired her to seek a better way. Becky also shares the key lessons she's learned throughout her career, the influences that shaped her philosophy, and an inside look at her new book, Reassessment That Works. Whether you're just beginning your grading journey or leading change in your school, this episode offers an authentic look at the experiences that continue to fuel Becky's commitment to improving learning for every student.