Dear CALM is a new page devoted to answering questions parents may have regarding their child’s education. It is here that you will find solutions that will help you navigate while remaining sane throughout the process. If you have a question, submit it and CALM will respond in a timely fashion.
Dear CALM,
I am the parent of a 10th grader with a dilemma. In trying to get my son into an honors math class recently,
I was told it was not possible. How can that be? He has done very well in class with Solid A’s and tested Advanced in the PSSA’s for four concurrent years. Each time I tried to have him placed in a higher level math class, I was told he may not be ready. What Advice can you give me that may help?
Sincerely,
At the end of my rope
Dear At the end of my rope;
Let me first say congratulations to your child who is doing quite well! He seems to have quite an aptitude for Math given his test scores and class work which is admirable. To take honors mathematics, there is a sequence of courses that must be taken at the lower grades; pre algebra, algebra, geometry etc. For this reason, it is difficult but not impossible to get a 10th grader into honors if he/she has not been exposed to the sequence above in the earlier grades. Here is a solution for you; find an Honors math summer course in your District or one nearby that is certified and will be accepted for your son to go through. If he gets a B or above in the test he will be given, take his results back to your district and ask them to place him in the Honors Course for the upcoming school year. It should be accepted. Good Luck!
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TIP FOR THE WEEK:
It is very important as parents that beginning in the 5th grade, you ask your District what you must do to get your child placed into the higher level courses at middle school. Math follows a set path so it is crucial to get your child into the earliest possible honors track that your school offers. If you notice at an early age that your child has an aptitude for the subject matter and tests well along with consistent grades in class, ask for a team meeting with his teacher to discuss his/her options. As the parent, you play an important role in the process and could save yourself the cost of summer courses not to mention sheer frustration in the latter grades.
