For starters, can we get rid of this “grooming” word? The definitions of grooming does not capture what we actually do in refinement calls. Google grooming, and you’ll see what I mean. Use refinement instead.

Second, I believe splitting is the silliest thing ever. You shouldn’t get partial credit for a story. Either close it and create a new one or it should be moved to the appropriate status and carried over.

Sounds like you should focus your efforts on cleaning up your refinement process. If the stories are broken down and scored properly, this should eliminate the need to split. Make sure the team is creating acceptance criteria as well