Teacher/First Grade

[Unregistered]

My Principal has given me an assignment I've never had before. I am to have 20 First Graders who have been retained solely because they have not acheved HIS desired reading level for going on to second grade. Because they are at least half way there, he is calling them Accelerated First Graders. Does anyone have any tips for me on how to approach my students and their parents about the special nature of this class? I don't want anyone feeling like they're failures because they're getting a second chance to achieve readiness for second grade.

[Unregistered]

Hi!

If I had to guess, I would say that you are a strong reading teacher and that's why your principle chose you to lead this special group of children! Challenge those kids to be the best they can, and tell the parents that you have high expectations for their children. No parent wants to feel like their child has been given up on, so your positive attitude will make all the difference to them and their children.

It's never easy when a "label" has been placed on a child, but make them rise above the label and it disappears. It's also not easy when we're asked to do something we aren't expecting... I wish you the best of luck and will say a prayer for you!

Lynn

[Unregistered]

Thanks Lynn for your helpful, encouraging response to my dilemma. I'll definitely keep your advice in mind as I proceed with my new assignment!

[Karla]

Well, look at it from the bight side these students have been in first grade already therefore they just need that extra push. You should actually use both programs by using the first grade for their reading level and the second grade to give them a head start. So when the students do move to second grade they will feel successful because they will be familirized with the program. I'm sure that by them being retained they will only benefit because they will fill the gaps they need it to have a great foundation. YOU and your students will do just fine.


My Principal has given me an assignment I've never had before. I am to have 20 First Graders who have been retained solely because they have not acheved HIS desired reading level for going on to second grade. Because they are at least half way there, he is calling them Accelerated First Graders. Does anyone have any tips for me on how to approach my students and their parents about the special nature of this class? I don't want anyone feeling like they're failures because they're getting a second chance to achieve readiness for second grade.