Philosophy

In general, children shall be placed at the grade level to which they are best adjusted academically, socially, and emotionally. The educational program shall provide for the continuous progress of children from grade to grade, with children spending one year in each grade. A small number of children, however, may benefit from staying another year in the same grade.

Policy

Reasons for retention vary according to the individual student. The individual child’s academic achievement, his/her potential, his/her social and physical maturity, and his/her effective needs must all be considered in formulating a decision. Another important consideration should be what assistance will be given to a retained child to help him/her overcome the problems causing the retention. In general, it is important that retention will have a reasonable chance of benefiting the child totally.

Whenever such retention is being considered, but no later than March 1st, the teacher shall confer with the principal. The parents shall be invited to a meeting with the teacher, principal, and other staff members no later than March 15th for discussion of the matter. This discussion shall consist of an explanation to the parents of their child’s current academic standing in relationship to the group and his or her own individual ability. The purpose of the discussion is to encourage cooperative planning between parents and staff for the child’s benefit. The decision shall be made jointly by the parents, teacher(s), principal, and other involved staff. If there is disagreement as to the child’s placement, the final decision shall be made by the Superintendent of Schools.

State Standards Compliance – Ed. 306.14(d)

APPROVED: June, 2007