Dallas ISD has developed a new class rank policy that will impact the class of 2021 and beyond. The new policy for determining a student’s rank provides a more equitable system across all academic programs and grants students greater freedom to explore and pursue their academic interests.
Under the old ranking system, a student’s rank calculation was based on a student’s top 24 course credits, no matter the subject. Under the new ranking system, rank calculation is based on a student’s top 15 eligible core courses that are also part of a student’s graduation requirement.
Here is an FAQ on the new class rank system:
What is class rank?
Class rank is a way to measure how a student’s academic performance compares to other students in his or her class.
Why does class rank matter?
When applying for scholarships, organizations may ask for applicants to achieve a certain class rank or percentile (such as the top 10 percent of the class). Some high schools may also award honors to graduating seniors who achieve a certain class rank. And while class rank is used for automatic admission to most Texas public universities, colleges and universities consider a variety of factors in their admission decisions.
Why change the class rank system?
When multiple academic programs are offered on a campus, one program may have the advantage over another. This advantage causes an inequity as the top 10 percent of students can be skewed towards that one particular program. In order to level the playing field, class rank will be based on the top 15 eligible core courses required for all students to graduate.
What are the eligible courses under the new class rank system?
Eligible courses are the required core courses (mathematics, English language arts (ELA), science and social studies) in the Foundation High School Program (FHSP) for all students. For a complete list of the Eligible Course Numbers for Class Rank Calculation (ECNCRC), visit www.dallasisd.org/ecncrc.
How is the numeric rank calculated?
Eligible core rank courses are placed in categories based on their level of complexity. A numeric value is assigned to each passing course grade within each category.
How are eligible courses assigned to categories?
Eligible courses are assigned to categories based on their level of rigor and difficulty:
• Category I: Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), advanced Project Lead the Way (PLTW), and dual credit courses in mathematics, ELA, science, and social studies
• Category II: Pre-AP, IB Middle Years Program (MYP) and International Scholars, lower level PLTW in mathematics, ELA, science, and social studies
• Category III: All other courses in mathematics, ELA, science, and social studies
Is there a worksheet I can use to calculate the numeric rank calculation?
Yes, a sample worksheet for estimate purposes only can be found at www.dallasisd.org/counselingservices.
Has the process for calculating GPA changed?
No, a student’s weighted GPA is an average of all courses taken in grades nine through 12 with appropriate course weights.
Where can I find more information about class rank?
More information is available from high school guidance counselors or the Dallas ISD Counseling Services website located at www.dallasisd.org/counselingservices.
