Grandson Should Be Evaluated by New School

Our 13-year-old grandson has been in seventh grade this year and has not done very well. He was a preemie at birth and has always been about a head shorter than other boys his age. He is also what the school calls "socially delayed." This year our son is seeking sole custody due to his wife's mental condition as documented through police reports and a psychological evaluation. We feel that the judge will rule for sole custody with supervised visitation from the mother.
We think that it would be better for our grandson to repeat seventh grade to develop physically and socially. He would be starting in an entirely new school system, so he could avoid all teasing from being held back. -- For Retention
Answer: The turmoil in his life might be playing a role in your grandson's problems at school. Holding him back in seventh grade -- even in a different school district -- is definitely not going to solve his academic and family problems.
You seem to think that another year in the same grade would help your grandson catch up with his classmates. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee this will happen. Time does not miraculously solve problems like the ones he has. You need to get your grandson help though the new school corporation. Apply to have him evaluated so supports will be in place to help him overcome his difficulties when school begins again in the fall. You'll want to do this now, as it can take time to get the paperwork and testing completed.
Another reason for doing the evaluation now is that your grandson probably needs some help this summer with academics. The new school district might have a program that could help him.