Grades are a subjective rating masquerading as an objective evaluation.

Very few things are as dangerous as a bunch of incentive-driven individuals trying to play it safe.

John Dewey reminded us that the value of what students do 'resides in its connection with a stimulation of greater thoughtfulness, not in the greater strain it imposes.

If faculty would relax their emphasis on grades, this might serve not to lower standards but to encourage an orientation toward learning.

Punishments and rewards are two sides of the same coin and that coin doesn't buy you much.

Each time I visit such a classroom, where the teacher is more interested in creating a democratic community than in maintaining her position of authority, I’m convinced all over again that moving away from consequences and rewards isn’t just realistic - it’s the best way to help kids grow into good learners and good people.

If children feel safe, they can take risks, ask questions, make mistakes, learn to trust, share their feelings, and grow.