Retention of Older Students

My cousin, who struggled in school, was retained in sixth grade. While I agree that retention that late should be carefully considered, it completely changed his life. He is now a college professor and can speak to the long-term value of retention much more eloquently than I. My opinion on the value of retention is based on 25 years of special-education experience and 26 years of parenting. I have seen many children who it has helped, and NONE who it has hurt. I have NEVER heard a parent say that they regretted the decision. How do you feel about retention? -- Special Education Teacher
Answer: As you know, we do not usually favor retaining students for another year in the same grade. We'll certainly admit that there are some successful retentions. Generally, this happens when it occurs very early in the school experience and is explained in a positive way. For most children, retention is an ugly experience that they rank close to blindness or losing a parent.