How to Handle Report Cards
Getting report cards can be one of the scariest and stressful times as a parent. We’re juggling so many things each and every day. Groceries, laundry, dentist appointments, extra-curriculars, and full-time jobs just to name a few. And then, before you know it, report cards are here.
So what can you do if you get a child’s report card that feels surprising or possibly alarming?
1) Don't blame yourself. Like I said before, you're doing a lot! Not to mention, school is so different now than it was when we were students. At this point, students have unlimited access to AI and schools are catching up. Assignments have to be submitted on Google Classroom or TurnItIn or another online platform. On top of that, the curriculum has changed several times just in the last decade. You're doing your best, and often, so is your child. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need help. So once you feel like you’ve overcome any initial shock, move on to step two.
2) Identify the reason for the grade.
Check for missing or late assignments. If the grade was the result of missing or late assignments, that can be an easy fix to raise a whole letter grade next quarter. Many students don't fully grasp the way a zero can drag down their average. Work with your child to identify any issues they may be having with organization or turning in assignments online. Work with them on procrastination and accountability. This is an ongoing process, but it’s never too late to start!
Beware the “optional” homework. A lot of teachers these days will assign homework that is optional. These assignments are often integral to your child’s understanding of the material. If their test and quiz scores are low, it may be because they’re skipping homework they interpret as unnecessary. Make sure they are still completing homework and checking their answers even if it’s not counting for a grade!
3) Identify if there is a learning gap. There are tons of free resources and opportunities to help your child get up to speed.
Encourage notetaking and reviewing classwork. Students often feel pressured to learn everything immediately. They don’t always understand that they aren’t expected to memorize everything right away! They should be creating and using the notes from class.
Encourage a planner, Google calendar, or another way to keep track of deadlines. There are a ton of great apps to use for this. Depending on your child’s age and preferences, find something that works for them and help keep it consistent.
Encourage your child to talk to their teacher, attend office hours, and ask about retakes in the future. Many teachers offer support during lunch periods and sometimes students don’t even know about it. Reassure them that their teacher also wants them to learn! We’re all on the same team.
Check if the school offers peer tutoring. Many schools offer peer tutoring. Check with the learning specialist at your school for more information.
And, of course, you can always hire a tutor to help guide your child through the material, teach them how to take notes, and answer any questions they may have along the way. Sometimes that one-on-one support is exactly what a student needs.