Early Signs of Student Academic Struggle and What to Do.

By. Michael John Mannion, Associate Director of Student Advocacy, TPAPT

As we head into each new quarter, things seem to fall into place. The first half is always smooth. Grades are refreshed, students don’t have as much to worry about, and there is no indicator of any student struggle.

Your child might continually say, “my grades are fine,” and you have no reason not to believe them. There have been no red flags. But you’ve been here before. Almost every term, often toward the middle, something pops up. A grade is missing, your child avoids a class, and assignments pile up.

We recommend getting ahead of the term by paying attention to these early signs of struggle. We understand the pattern that follows this period of time when all seems fine. To help combat this, here is a list of struggles to pay attention to in your child.

Indicators of Student Struggle

• Early quiz grades have low scores
• Already seeing missing assignments
• Withdrawal/Isolation from school discussions
• Early remarks of worry from teachers
• Unregulated time management
• Constant arguments
• Avoiding work or making excuses
• Sleep schedule is all over the place

The Achievement Method Equation

If any of these common signs of struggle are appearing we recommend a number of achievement methods in order to find the best way for your child to succeed. As you review the table, think of the process working like this: Indicators of Struggle→Achievement Method→Indicators of Success

If you think your student may be struggling and need some free professional advice, please know that you can schedule a Academic Support Call with our Boulder Chapter, Just2 Education. There is no charge for the call.