First Quarter Grades?

I’m applying Early Decision to Duke on the Common App this year and they require “first quarter” grades. Do I send these myself (how??) or do I tell my counselor to send them? How does it work? This first quarter grade report is due November 1.

Your GC would send

Do I have to ask them to do that or do they do it on their own?

You should ask them to make sure they are sent in once they are available. Your GC would then send your first quarter grades directly to Duke or through the CA.