Updates on Phase 4 & 5 Grading Schedule Beginning March 2024

Monthly Testing Transition: Beginning in March 2024, we will adopt a monthly freedom phase testing schedule for phases 4 & 5, moving away from the previous weekly and quarterly formats. This change aims to provide an optimal balance between allowing students time to implement grader feedback and maintaining their momentum.

Feedback Implementation Importance: For students advancing to phases 4 and 5, it is crucial to use the time between tests to apply feedback from graders. This rationale motivated the shift from weekly tests, which didn't allow enough time for improvement, to a more balanced approach.

Phase 4/5 Specifics:

• This monthly schedule will apply to both pipers and drummers in phases 4 & 5.
• If a student is very close to passing, they may be invited to resubmit their performance the following week. This opportunity will depend on the grading team's discretion.
• Phases 1 to 3 will continue with weekly grading to ensure consistent feedback and progression.

2024 Grading Schedule with Detailed Times:

• March 13, 2024: Grading window opens at 3pm EST; March 14, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• April 10, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; April 11, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• May 8, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; May 9, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• June 19, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; June 20, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• July 17, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; July 18, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• September 11, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; September 12, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• October 9, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; October 10, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• November 6, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; November 7, 2024: Closes at noon EST.
• December 18, 2024: Opens at 3pm EST; December 19, 2024: Closes at noon EST.