retention

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Home : 2002 : May : 25

retention
By Carolyn

At our school, retention decisions are not made by the teacher alone. We generally have all of the "back-up" we can to make sure that there aren't problems on down the road. Parents also find it harder to argue with the
committee decisions that we make in our district. There's just so much more ammunition.
Typically, a retention committee consists of the principal, the classroom teacher, the parent(s), occasionally the school psychologist, and the guidance counselor. Together we discuss the pros and cons of retaining the child. If we feel strongly enough to retain a child, then we will tell the

parent that we plan to retain the child. If the parent doesn't like the idea, then he/she can take it to the district level where there would be another meeting.

I am hoping that you can get together a committee of persons who can discuss your child's being retained. Your committee may elect to send the child on, based upon a number of factors. Get your principal involved and be sure that he/she understands your position about the retention. Determine if he/she supports your decision. This will make it easier to deal with your parents.