In today's educational landscape, the question arises: are traditional grades hindering student growth? As educators and stakeholders reconsider assessment methods, a shift towards feedback-oriented evaluation is gaining traction. Traditional grading systems often impose a fixed mindset on students, where grades signify a definitive measure of success or failure. This rigid approach can stifle motivation, leading to anxiety and a lack of engagement among learners.Research indicates that grades can misrepresent student learning, as they do not accurately reflect comprehension or skill development. Moreover, systemic biases in grading practices can exacerbate inequities, leaving some students at a disadvantage regardless of their actual capabilities. On the other hand, feedback-driven assessment presents a promising alternative. Unlike grades, which can create pressure, effective feedback fosters a growth mindset, encouraging students to view challenges as opportunities for improvement. Feedback can be categorized into formative and summative types, both of which serve crucial roles in the learning process. Formative feedback helps students identify areas for improvement without the punitive weight of a grade, while summative feedback provides a reflective overview of their progress. Real-life examples from classrooms demonstrate how constructive feedback has empowered students, allowing them to take ownership of their learning journey. Implementing feedback-driven assessment requires intentional strategies from educators. Creating a supportive classroom environment that emphasizes learning over grades is essential. This involves designing assessments that prioritize student growth and incorporating practices such as self-assessment and peer feedback. Tools and technologies that facilitate continuous feedback can enhance this process, making it more accessible for both teachers and students. Ultimately, rethinking grades is vital for fostering student engagement and success, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective educational system.