by Myron Hammond, Executive Director at Insight School of Washington
Ridgewood NJ, “Another morning, another struggle,” you might hear as you rouse your child from slumber. Such sentiments are familiar to parents, hinting at deeper concerns than mere reluctance to face the day. As parents, we recognize these moments as opportunities to delve deeper into our children’s educational experiences and other experiences , ensuring we address any underlying issues promptly.
Identifying the Signs
There are clear indicators that your child might be grappling with their current school environment. These include declining grades, frequent complaints of physical discomfort, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, and indecisiveness. Even if they don’t explicitly voice dissatisfaction, as parents, we’re attuned to subtle shifts in our child’s demeanor and behavior.
Taking Action
As summer break nears its end, we must take proactive steps to improve our child’s journey for the upcoming school year. Begin by fostering open dialogue with your child, creating a safe space for them to express frustrations without fear of judgment. I have found this is best accomplished by having frequent small conversations with my children asking open ended questions to try to get a better insight into what my child is feeling and experiencing. Focus these small discussions on two pivotal aspects: academic challenges and social dynamics.
Traditional school models often adopt a one-size-fits-all approach that may not cater to every student’s needs. The conversations you had with your child in combination with what you have observed in their education can help you determine the best fit for your child. Recent studies highlight concerning statistics, such as nearly half of teachers rating their school’s academic performance as subpar, with standardized tests revealing widespread academic underachievement. Moreover, many gifted students find themselves unengaged due to insufficient challenges, highlighting the need for diverse educational approaches.
Understanding the social landscape is equally critical. Beyond knowing their friends’ names, delve into the intricacies of their social circles. From subtle bullying to toxic relationships, these dynamics can profoundly impact your child’s emotional well-being and academic performance.
Exploring Alternatives
Should you find that their current school environment fails to meet their needs, consider exploring alternative educational options during the summer break. At ISWA, we advocate for personalized learning experiences that cater to each student’s unique strengths and interests. Our approach includes:
- Public School Open Enrollment: All students in Washington State can enroll in our program and attend at no cost.
- Alternative Schooling Options: Consider online schools like Insight School of Washington, homeschooling, private/independent schools, and career-focused institutions. Each offers distinct advantages, from specialized curricula to flexible learning environments tailored to individual learning styles.
- Online Education: Embrace online schooling options where students can engage in interactive learning platforms like Engageli – our innovative synchronous learning experience as well as social activities held in the K12 Zone. Here, they can socialize, participate in clubs, and benefit from a robust curriculum designed to nurture both academic and personal growth.
- Career Pathways: For those inclined towards career-oriented education, explore pathways that integrate high school coursework with practical skills training and dual enrollment opportunities. Insight School of Washington offers college credit in nearly every one of our Career and Technical Education Courses in business, marketing, health careers, digital arts and technology
Empowering Parents in Education
As parents, our role extends beyond homework assistance; it encompasses guiding our children toward educational environments where they can thrive. By understanding their unique needs and exploring suitable educational avenues, we pave the way for a fulfilling and enriching school experience.
At ISWA we’re committed to empowering families with insights and options to ensure every child’s educational journey is as rewarding as it is impactful. Together, let’s redefine what it means to support our children’s educational aspirations, one informed decision at a time.
About Myron Hammond, Executive Director at Insight School of Washington (https://insightwa.k12.com/)
Myron Hammond has been with Insight School of Washington since 2011. Prior to his role as Executive Director, he was the Director of Data and Assessment, and Principal. Myron was a recipient of the Innovation in Education Award from Senator Slade Gordon for his work in creating a laptop education program in Mattawa, Washington. He holds a BS in Biology Composite Teaching & Business from Brigham Young University, as well as a Certificate in Business from Central Washington University. Hammond holds additional certifications including Residency Administrator, Career and Technical Education: Business, and Continuing Teacher: Biology and Business.
