How many of us as students can say we are 100 percent knowledgeable in each subject we are taught?

How many of us are clueless in certain subjects but still can maintain a decent grade within the subject because we do the work and are able to memorize and cram before a test?

As long as we have a decent grade in our classes, how many of us really care whether or not we actually understand the subject?

The unfortunate truth is that school is about grades, grade-point averages, and tests. This applies to students, school staff, and even parents.

For students, grades are the motivator in school; grades define their success in school.

Most teenagers would not willingly get up before the crack of dawn, go to school for about six hours, and stay up until midnight trying to finish homework.

Students do it because they have parents that hold them to certain requirements and teachers hounding them about their grades.

I have been that student that says, “I almost have a B in this class. How can I gain extra points?”

It is rare that students look into improving their understanding of a subject, rather than just improving their grade in a class.

Grades are why students that do not understand a subject cheat on tests and copy their best friend’s homework. They are afraid to fail.

Grades are what have and what will continue to define students.

Our grade-point average matters on college applications, acceptance to the National Honor Society, playing sports, and many other things.

You are not qualified if the grades do not look right to those judging you, whether or not you know the material well.

Schools fail to enforce learning and instead emphasize tests and grades. As a result, most students cram and regurgitate everything to get an A, but cannot apply what they are supposed to be learning.

Grades may play a big role in school, but the school should empower students to learn content of a subject and determine their own success, rather than reaching a percentage in a class and basing their success on their grades.