South Carolina Ends the 50% Grade Floor
Act 204, in effect since July 1, 2026, bars S.C. public schools from requiring minimum grades above what a student actually earned.
South Carolina's Act 204 took effect July 1, 2026. It prohibits public schools from setting minimum grades, such as an automatic 50%, above a student's actual performance. That ends local "grade floor" policies that guaranteed a minimum score even when a student earned less.
The Times commentary lays out both sides. Supporters say honest grades flag problems sooner and prompt earlier help. Critics warn that more course failures could strain students already facing hardship. The piece notes that some falling grades may reflect the new calculation rather than less learning, and it argues that early intervention will decide whether the change works.