Is Another Year Worth It?

Following the story of a student who ends up having to repeat the third grade, this case explores the issue of retention—weighing its benefits with its negative consequences. What is the process that leads to making the decision for retention? When is it appropriate to hold a student back, and what should be done to help a child achieve during the time when a student repeats a grade? Further issues addressed in this case include how and when standardized tests should be used related to holding a student back, and how can teachers best work with parents, especially those who don’t speak English, when serious issues such as retention arise.

Discussion Questions

1. When should students be retained?
2. What is the role of the teacher with students who have been retained? Should we teach them differently?
3. What is our responsibility to parents who don’t speak English?
4. How should standardized tests be used? How should practice tests be used?