Teenager - Bad Grades - Leave School Early?

[monnie]

Sounds like she is really struggling...she's engaging in a whole lot of risk taking behaviour (especially the truck thing) that is really scary.

I think what she needs most is people around her who believe in her and her potential. I would encourage her to stay at school as long as possible as the risk is she leaves and becomes totally aimless...which could lead to further problems.

It would be fantastic if you could find a school that has a great mentor that she could relate to. Someone who is going to stick by her, encourage her and occasionally kick her butt into gear. I would think that what she needs most is security and protection as she isn't providing that for herself...

I think the stats are scarier for kids who are struggling and leave school early than those who struggle but stay.

Hope it works out.

[Lulu]

I wish I had been more encouraged too, I ended up having the fight the school to stay ( I wasn't a bad student tho), they gave me "we don't think you will pass yr 12" bollocks. Never mind I was passing and used to help the English teacher with the students that still couldn't spell. The rude bustards thought I was on drugs I think (I did sleep alot in class), but I actually was very ill.

ANYWAY - I'm not sure where you are but there are alternative high schools dotted around. They are lots smaller and the kids get far more individual attention. DD's friend goes to one after nearly dropping out in yr 8 (merciless teasing/bullying), and she is really shining now.

Oh and get the Princess B'face book by Micheal Carr- Gregg, it's a darn good investment and terrific support. There are some tips on negotiating behaviours in ther too.

You're a legend for taking this on Fi