We know that the research does not support retention for any students; however, are there times when retention can be in the best interest of a child? Does anyone know of any literature/articles that support retention in some cases (for students with disabilities)?
Thanks,
Char
It absolutely can be an advantage if done early and if effective remediation is being given so that the child can actually be up with his peers by the end of the year. I had my own child repeat first grade. She went from being the lowest in the class to being in the middle. This was FAR better than destining her to being at the bottom all the way up. She had excellent reading instruction which brought her word attack scores up that second year, so she had a great year in second grade this year. Yes, she is still LD, but her skills are improved to the point that she can be successful.
Helping Children Overcome Learning Disabilities by Jerome Rosner states this view in chapter 7, Treatment Options.
I am generally not in favor of retention for older children.
Janis