Major gaps in education. Would you repeat?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:So he would be 19 when he graduates???

If he graduates he can just drop out sophomore year.

[Anonymous]

I would have him repeat. He will thank you later. My DS is young for his class, and he is doing fine now as a high school senior, but it has been challenging for many years. I had tried to have him repeat but I was not able to make it work in MCPS.

[Anonymous]

OP, trust your gut. I think repeating 8th grade at a new school sounds like a well thought out plan for your kid who is falling behind in school. But, I would certainly address my concerns with my partner/spouse and child. Talk with the child about what is happening. Reassure them that they are smart but that something is not working and you want to help him figure it out so that his school life will be easier. Is it executive functioning? Is it that he is not completely understanding instructions? Does he just need to spend more time working through his homework? A one size approach does not apply in this situation and it sounds like you could give your child the gift of an extra year to really work on things. Also, as a former military brat, starting a new school in 8th grade would enable him to start high school with some friends. I know this is not the reason for retaking a year, but an added bonus. Also, I strongly recommend the book “That Crumpled Paper Was Due Last Week: Helping Disorganized and Distracted Boys Succeed in School and Life”. Best of luck! I hope you look back on this someday with no regrets!