With Schools Closing, Will My Teen Graduate On Time?

All across America, public schools have shut their doors and moved everything online to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). While most kids initially were thrilled to do their schooling online and in pajamas, not only has the shine rubbed off for many of them as school work is harder without a teacher present. Also, how effective the move to online teaching has been varying widely, even within the same school. Some therapeutic boarding schools have remained open, as they are private, closed communities. These students are still on track for graduation. However, many parents are now concerned that their children won't graduate. Like, the current batch of seniors will—but what about everyone else?

Teens May Graduate But Not Have A Ceremony

As the bulk of the school year has already been completed as schools closed—with most schools closing in mid- to late-March—the current cohort of senior students will likely graduate without any issues. Even with some of the bumps and snags some individuals have reported in transitioning to online schooling, with most of the school year completed, the oldest students are in the clear. Also, while graduation may occur, the time-honored high school graduation ceremonies may not happen, in the interest of keeping people from gathering. However, the real problem lies with younger students. While seniors in high school may skate by with subpar online schooling, other students may fall behind significantly without additional help from their parents.

Parent Can Help Significantly To Prevent Education Loss

Parents can play a significant role in their children's education, especially with the rocky transition to distance learning. Some ways parents can step in are:

• Communicate with teachers - If you are concerned that your child is going to struggle with online learning, you can reach out to your teen's teachers. That way, you can coordinate with them on what adaptations need to be made, especially if your teen already has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
• Help with homework - It may have been a long time since you were confronted by algebra, but your help can make a difference with your teen. Even if you have to relearn it alongside your teen as you help, it can help encourage your teen to stay with their homework if you are right there with them.
• Provide quiet learning spaces - While parents are more accustomed to having quiet areas only in the late afternoon and early evening for homework, distance learning can also call for quiet time during the day. You don't have to have the whole house silent, but perhaps set aside one room where your teen can have a quiet, calm area for their studies.
• Consider supplementary help - There are online tutoring options that you can look into to help your teen if they are struggling, and you are unsure about your teaching ability. You may also want to check if your school district is offering tutoring options.

Liahona Treatment Center Classes Are Ongoing

Remember how we mentioned that not all schools are closed? Well, Liahona Treatment Center is one of those programs. At our residential treatment center, we run small classes with state-licensed teachers, and all our students live on campus. With our accredited educational program, our students—most of whom were struggling in school—are able to keep up with their studies and excel. If you are concerned about your son's behavior and his ability to keep up with school, you can feel free to contact us to see if our program is a good fit for your son.