Linn-Mar to end use of class rankings

Linn-Mar school board members last night approved an administration recommendation that class rank be discontinued for all grades starting with the upcoming school year.

Valedictorian and salutatorian titles for graduating seniors will continue, along with recognitions of graduating “with honors” (GPA of 3.75 to 3.99) and “with distinction” (GPA of 4.0 and above).

Among the factors weighing into the administration's recommendation was research indicating that class rank was not among the three most important factors cited by college admissions officers in choosing which students to admit.

Also last night, the board approved a total package - wages and benefits - increase of 3.25 percent for 53 district administrators, directors, managers and coordinators.

The cost to the district will be $163,238. Salary increases will range from 2.48 to 3.24 percent.

Board President Ann Stark called the package a “well-earned raise'' for employees who had received no raises this year.