Do You Know Where Your Child is Academically?

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 In a conversation with a Grade 6 homeroom teacher, I learned about the wide range of academic levels within her classroom. She explained that while a few students are performing at an advanced level, comparable to Grade 9, the majority are working at their current Grade 6 level. However, some students are behind, with a few even working at a Grade 3 level.

From my 30 years of experience as both a teacher and school principal, I can confidently say this situation is almost universal. Classrooms often have a diverse range of learners, and it’s essential to recognize and support students at every level to help them succeed.

It’s especially important for parents to identify where their child stands academically as early as possible—preferably by Grade 3. This is a crucial dividing line. If a child has not yet acquired key reading skills, such as phonics, decoding, reading fluency, and comprehension by this stage, it’s almost certain they will face academic challenges in later grades. Early identification of these gaps can make a world of difference in your child’s educational journey.

I encourage parents to consult with both school and after-school program teachers to understand where their child is academically. With this understanding, parents can make informed decisions about whether to arrange extra academic help, ensuring their child can catch up, move beyond average, or already excelling.