90 - Throw Away the Rubric: Ungrading the Music Room, featuring Chris Gleason

In Episode 90, Theresa and Kathryn are joined by Chris Gleason for a thought-provoking conversation about grading. Chris challenges traditional notions of grading and assessment, offering compelling stories and practical strategies for shifting from compliance-based systems to student-centered, intrinsic learning environments. With humor, wisdom, and years of classroom experience, Chris explores what it means to foster agency, curiosity, and deep reflection in music education—and why students’ growth can’t (and shouldn’t) be reduced to a number or letter grade.

Whether you're brand new to the concept of ungrading or already dipping your toes in these waters, this episode is sure to get you thinking deeply about your own classroom practices. Chris reminds us that meaningful learning comes from relationships, relevance, and reflection—not from points, charts, or checklists. Tune in for an honest, encouraging, and energizing discussion that will leave you inspired to rethink assessment and empowered to make bold changes that truly benefit your students.

Connect with Chris and learn more:

• Website: www.chrisgleason.com
• Podcast: Beyond Artless
• Beyond the Notes Music Festival

Other resources from this episode:

• Episode 84 - Assessment for Growth: Empowering Student Musicians
• Episode 67 - Unlock Student Potential: Transforming Assessment in Music Education
• Episode 55 - Assessment for Learning: Nurturing Growth and Progress in Every Student
• Trust and Inspire, by Steven Covey
• Punished by Rewards, by Alfie Kohn
• The Art of Possibility, by Rosemond Stone Zander
• Hacking Assessment, by Starr Sackstein
• Undoing the Grade, by Jesse Stommel

Connect with Pass the Baton and learn more:

• Pass the Baton website⁠
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection ⁠⁠⁠⁠