Tom Schimmer

Tom Schimmer is an internationally recognized author, speaker, and expert in educational assessment, grading, and feedback. Over his 35-year career, he has served as a classroom teacher, school administrator, and district-level leader, giving him a deeply practical foundation for his work. He is the author or co-author of ten books, including bestsellers "Grading from the Inside Out" and "Standards-Based Learning in Action," as well as his latest, "Rehumanizing Assessment: Gathering Student Evidence through Storytelling," all grounded in practical frameworks that emphasize learning over numerical scores.

As a keynote speaker, Schimmer is recognized for translating complex educational concepts into actionable strategies, making him a sought-after presenter at national and international conferences and professional development events. His work as a speaker and consultant has brought him to schools and districts throughout Canada, the United States, and 27 other countries to implement fair and accurate standards-based grading systems.

Schimmer is also the co-founder of the Canadian Assessment Centre and co-host of the "Assess THAT Podcast," where he explores modern assessment strategies through real-world applications and current research. His keynotes, workshops, and virtual appearances consistently address the transition to standards-based grading and the evolving needs of education.

Schimmer has received widespread recognition for tackling longstanding challenges such as biased grading practices and inconsistent feedback. His evidence-based approach equips educators with practical tools for assessment reform and supports systemic change at the school and district level, making him a leading voice in improving student outcomes through more thoughtful and humane grading practices.