He is taking Algebra 1, a 9th-grade level English course, Physics, an Art course, a History-equivalent course called Social Justice, and PE. Does he have a chance of attending university?
A cautious yes…
It is only freshman year and there’s time for an upward trend.
I would arrange a video call with the student’s guidance counselor. Make sure they are aware of the goal, acknowledge the bad start, and get specifics as to the path forward.
Ask if it is worth testing for ADD or any other condition that could be a factor or obstacle to success. Thorough testing may have to wait until the covid restrictions ease a bit, do what you can now.
Make sure the student is on board with a collegiate plan. If not, there are plenty of other paths to having a fulfilling life (military, trade school, entrepreneurship, etc.). Community college is a possibility. There are good ones out there that have pathways to 4-year state schools. If the student isn’t completely on board, improving his grades, and setting up for success, though, don’t take on any education debt.
The student may have to retake some classes, and that is something that definitely needs to be discussed with the guidance counselor. Might as well get that done this summer, even if it is online.
He does not want to improve his GPA/learn, and his reading level is below average for a 9th grader (though it seems that no one has looked into the “why” of this issue.) I am asking because he assumes that others are stupid frequently, and because I am considering dating him. If a guy has no ambition in freshman year and does not want to learn anything, is he likely to change? Should I date him?
Unless he improves, no.
And unless your child made absolutely 0 attempt at schoolwork this year, it is unlikely he will improve at the rate needed to get him into a decent college by now. I made little attempt this year, and my GPA was still average compared to the rest of the class.
If you are absolutely confident in his ability to raise his grades by 2-2.5 points next year, then there are some schools that completely disregard freshman year, like the UC schools.
If your child’s GPA remains at 1.5/2.0 level, I’d suggest he should look into trade school and other blue collar work. Attending a for-profit university that will take him at that level will do him more harm then good.
Do not date him. He is probably not at the same level as you, and I can tell you that it is a much better experience to be with people who can intellectually stimulate you.
That said, I have known people who were able to raise their GPA by 1 or more points the next year. For example, my acquaintance Timothy had a 2.0 ish GPA and got a 3.0 ish the next year.
This made me laugh so hard I made an account just to respond. One, it’s freshman year and SUPER unlikely you’d be dating long enough for his college plans to matter. Two, if you want something with him that actually lasts, he sounds a little arrogant and also like his goals don’t align with yours. I can’t stress enough that that is one of the worst combinations you can have in a long-term boyfriend. Maybe he’ll change, but I’d wait until that happens (and don’t hold your breath lol).
Also, if you have to ask collegeconfidential, chances are it’s not meant to be.
As a person who has been around a while, I would be cautious.
It is better for you to be with people who have the same values as you.
Why doesn’t he get good grades? Learning disability? No motivation?
Would rather work? Would rather hang out? Family doesn’t take education seriously?
How would that effect you? Would he rather party than do homework, encouraging you do the same? Or would you encourage him to do homework?
Would you choose a class so you could be in the same class as him when you should be in honors? Would you join less clubs so you could spend more time with him?
In general you should plan your life around you and not anyone else at this age.