[DEVILOLOGIST]

I don't know what difference it makes what grade they are held back in. I can see the argument that holding them back when they are younger and taking basic classes, but I can also see the argument that holding them back during middle school when they have a chance to master those crazy portfolios. It's a hot topic for sure. If a parent chooses to do this, I suggest talking to others who have held theirs back and research it first. I can name all kinds of advantages for the kid. What are some of the disadvantages for a kid held back? Just to be clear, in our school system, if you fail a grade, you can't participate in athletics that year.

My point was this,, it is tough to watch your child struggle in school.. My son was also held back in the third grade because he started school at 5 and struggled in class. He was not grasping the concepts as the other kids did... So we held him back...
We start portfolios at the 4th grade and this is an adjusment in itself,, I KNOW they are a headache... But I also look at holding my son back in the third grade will still affect him as he will be a 17 year old senior. and playing football at 17 his senior year.... He turned 12 in September so he started this year as an 11 year old.

I know that it is the parents choice and I agree,, that is their choice... I dont have a problem with that.......

What I was saying is that if it takes a child getting to the 8th grade before his parents realize he will be graduating HS at 17...well if this does not stand out to you until then ,, then maybe your child is mature enough where he is.....

This thread is directed toward parents and schools that HOLD back their children for nothing other than for making you child a SPORTS STUD.....

If you got to see the Devils 6th grade play this year,, imagine if number 2 was held back a year and played against 6th graders next year........
It would make him a STUD in his class but do nothing for him other wise than to have kids who go to school with him think bad about him for not passing......

We had a long talk with our child at third grade and made sure he could handle a repeat year,, and nothing was ever said about sports int he conversation.....

OH and yes there is a school that holds back the top 6-7 athletes every year.. If you could find a way to review the records of the kids were held back every year,, I would almost guarentee that ALL of them are on a school sports team today !!!!!!