Converting a charvar2 to number, decending order shows 100 after smallest number

Using Crystal Reports 14.1.2.1121

I have student grades that are stored as varchar2, I convert them to numbers using

If NumericText ({HONORROLL.GPA}) then Val ({HONORROLL.GPA}) else 0  (I have also tried ToNumber)

But.. then Record Sort ascending or descending does not put the students who have 100% in the right spot.

See attached jpg

Thank you in advance for any help you can give me.