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This is a question I am asked on a weekly basis, especially now with quarterly grades due.
Think of it like this. You work at one of the car manufacturing plants. Your job is to secure bolts onto the doors. But you need some assistance to do the job right. No problem! A manager gets you the help you need. With the assistance you receive, the car’s doors are more than secure, and the job is done right. You feel good about yourself and a job well done!
Students who are on IEP’s and 504 Plans can relate with the above scenario. They do need extra assistance; that is why these students qualify for an IEP or 540 Plan. Just because students receive help does not mean they do not deserve to be awarded the grade that has been earned.
Can these students be on the honor roll?
Answer this question first. Are you going to set aside the car you secured the bolts to the doors from all the rest? Of course not. This car will be processed accordingly with all the other cars. There are no labels with your name on the car you helped to assemble. Therefore, there should be no labels attached to the students who are on an IEP or 540 Plan.
I have taught many students over 35 years who have qualified for additional assistance from elementary through the graduate level at college. I can tell you these are some of the hardest working students I know. These students know the true meaning of the word “effort”.
If you are a teacher with a “grading” question, consider yourself as the student. Would it be ok to “not” award you honor roll status, even though you “earned” the grades all quarter? Absolutely not!
Be honest, you might be questioning the grades you have given these students. Visual Learning Resources LLC realizes how difficult it can be to teach a blended classroom of students. Even those parents who are homeschooling have children who have learning challenges. I encourage you to visit www.visuallearningresources.com and view our modules on teaching. We can help you teach to meet all students’ needs so they can shine and be their best!
“The value of a grade is just a letter beginning with the alphabet. Instead, value students letting them know they are worthy of doing a good job!”
Prayer for the week:
Heavenly Father, help teachers see students and their worthiness in Your light. To look at their “ability”, not “disability”. You have made us all different, but unique. Give teachers and parents who homeschool the insight and wisdom to uplift every student, whether it be by showing them through encouragement or grades. May Your blessings be cast down this week as teachers strive to make a difference. Amen.
Blessings,
Debbie Guyer
Founder and Mentor of VLR