Course Deficiency/Retention*
The decision to promote a student to the next grade or to retain him/her in the present grade is based upon a consideration of the overall welfare of the student. This is accomplished carefully by weighing academic, emotional, and social factors. The principal, in consultation with the parents/guardians and faculty, shall make the final decision regarding retention. In the event that retention is considered, the following guidelines are applied:
- The teacher is responsible for consistent evaluation, early diagnosis, and effective remediation of learning problems. Initially, the teacher will provide remedial help to the student within the school setting. If such help proves inadequate, the teacher will advise the parents to arrange for outside remedial help.
- The teacher will make the principal aware of any student with significant learning or work habit problems no later than the end of the first trimester. The principal, teachers, parents, and students will participate in the Support Team Education Plan (STEP) process throughout the duration of the school year. Parents/guardians will be informed of the student's progress or possibility of retention. Copies of these meetings and reports are kept on file.
- Retention is more successful in the primary grades; therefore, the primary grade teacher will diligently observe the struggling student so that problems may be corrected before the student reaches the middle and upper grades.
- Students in 5th through 7th grade who achieve a cumulative GPA of 1.99 or below could be retained in the current grade for the following academic year and/or placed on an academic contract.
- If a student is absent more than 15 times in a trimester, or a total of 45 days throughout the school year, he/she may be retained.
In the case of a pupil with severe learning difficulties it may be necessary to recognize that the Catholic School is not equipped to meet the needs of every child and therefore, a recommended transfer might be necessary
