Whether this cumulative decline occurs in mathematics achievement is uncertain. Retention Harms Learners Historically, educators have viewed retention as a means of reducing skill variance in the classroom in an attempt to better meet student needs. Clearly, this practice has not achieved its goal. In the process we have harmed our clients. Educators would do well to take a similar oath.
Retention harms an at-risk population cognitively and affectively.
Alternatives to consider include requiring summer school, offering intensive remediation before and after school, changing teacher and administrative perceptions, and increasing teacher expectations. A body of research exists on the subject of retention, and it should guide our practice. Another study of dropouts. Texas State Teachers Association. Why boys and girls leave school.