School grades are an integral part of every family's daily routine, but under current rules, a "failing" grade simply does not exist, and numerical grading is not used at all in grades 1 through 4. Additionally, monetary reimbursements are available for students' families that many are unaware of.
The grading procedure is established by the relevant order of the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports (MoESCS). In the case of numerical grading, a 10-point scale is applied where no mark is considered failing, and each point describes a certain level of a student's achievement. A score of 10 points is given when a learner applies material in unfamiliar situations, reveals the internal connections of phenomena, and demonstrates critical and creative skills.
In grades 1–4 and the first semester of grade 5, summative evaluation is carried out through descriptive assessment, with a progress profile compiled for each student. Numerical grading begins in the second semester of grade 5.
There are three types of grading: diagnostic, formative, and summative. During formative assessment, no points are assigned, and it does not imply comparing children with one another. The semester grade is formed by the arithmetic mean of scores obtained from forms chosen by the teacher, while the annual grade is calculated automatically as the mean of the semester grades.
Vacation schedules have also been approved. Autumn break for 1st graders will run from October 19 to October 30 or 31 inclusive, and for grades 2–12, from October 26 to October 30 or 31. Winter break for 1st and 2nd graders will begin on December 28 and run through January 22 or 23, 2027, and for the rest, from December 28 to January 8 or 9. Spring break for first graders is scheduled from March 15 to March 26 or 27, and for others, from March 22 to March 26 or 27.
The state allocates up to 20,200 drams per month in reimbursement for transportation expenses. For first graders, a one-time assistance of 25,000 drams is provided to families entitled to vulnerability benefits.
The new grading system and social assistance programs highlight a new approach adopted in the education sector.
The elimination of failing grades and the introduction of descriptive assessment are aimed at reducing artificial tension and stress among students. In practice, however, many parents still find it difficult to grasp the effectiveness of evaluating progress without numerical marks.
Financial support programs could significantly lighten the burden on vulnerable families if awareness levels are sufficient.
