When the admissions rep visited my school in October, I asked her if they'd want 1st quarter grades for ED applicants. I believe her exact phrasing was, "We may or may not ask for them." I asked her what that meant, and under what circumstance they'd ask. She said there was no general circumstance, I guess they just want more information about you.
Perhaps they are searching for a trend and is unclear by past performance? At least it means they've reviewed your app and you're not an automatic out
So did the rep contact you too, or just your counselor? I'd hate for my counselor to send my grades without first warning me >.<