"I was wondering why so often goodness is associated with good grades?"
Good question....I have no idea. You'd have to get to know my son to understand that he is a good kid. His kindness and concern for other's has always been who he is and even if he did make bad grades in school....it wouldn't change how I feel about him. He takes after his father (thank God)! He's a natural around people and generally brings out the best in everyone....even me. :-)
I'm sure your son is a wonderful person, all around! You're post just made me realize in general how often some people equate being a good student with a good person. I can't tell you how many times I see news articles where some teenager killed or maimed someone and the parents and others involved respond" But he/she is on the honor roll, a straight A student!"