<p>My son's boarding school is discussing the possibility of making the academic policy more stringent in order to 'encourage' the students there to work harder. Personally, I don't think this is a motivating factor and instead I would like to see them offer a stronger support system for struggling students. I was hoping to gather some information form this forum on academic policies at your schools as well as support systems offered. Any information would be helpful.</p>
<p>Has the administration at that BS seen the documentary “Race to Nowhere”? Ask them–it really is eye opening about the pressure of high school on Amercia’s teens (and not in a positive way). It supports the idea that all teens need more support (and are in some ways struggling under the pressure). If you need ammunition for your position, this movie will absolutely provide it.</p>
<p>ellwoodg, would you mind sharing with us what school your son attends? Those of us who are waiting to hear from schools next week would like to have as much information as possible about schools we might be revisiting (fingers crossed!).</p>
<p>Also, what does the administration mean by making the academic policy more stringent? Are they looking at requiring more classes in certain subject areas? Raising qualifications for making honor roll? I’m curious to know what they are thinking!</p>
<p>NYMom3 … It is not a main stream school … it is actually a public boarding school in Maine. They currently have only A’s, B’s, C’s and F’s. They are talking about putting anyone on probation that has a single C-. They already have a high attrition rate and, in my opinion, are lacking in the support system to help kids succeed. My daughter attends Berkshire where the environment is much more supportive of students and the academic probation policy much more forgiving. I am hoping to provide information to my son’s school that shows that they should be focusing on guidance and support not threats.</p>
<p>erlanger … Thanks! I will definitely try to watch this and pass along the information.</p>