I have come to the conclusion this week that there are students that, without a doubt, will not work independently. As the teacher, I ask them if they would like to come in after or before school or during study hall. I make accommodations so that their teachers will let them come visit with me. However, at the end of the day if they do not take advantage of these extra times or even asking questions during class, then I am not sure what other steps I can take to get them to engage.
For example, this has been a constant battle with a particular student all semester. She does not understand the material so I help her in class. She still doesn't understand the material so I ask her to come in before or after school or during Focus period. She doesn't. She is allowed to retake any quiz or test without exception. She doesn't. Then both her and the parents ask the question, "Why is she failing your class?"
After allowing all the interventions and times I asked her to come in I began to document these times so that I could show the parents that this was happening. There is a point in my teaching that I have to say enough is enough. I am not sure what else I can do.
Like the old saying, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make them drink."
Any suggestions out there?
Ahhh the struggle. That can be so frustrating when you make yourself available to help and do everything you can, and then it's your fault when the student is failing! (Insert eye roll). But I think you're doing everything exactly right. I think it's a great idea to document all the times you're offering help and all the times the student is not accepting. This will be great to have to support your case. I will definitely use this idea in the future. Sorry I don't have a lot of advice, other than I think you're doing everything exactly right! You can only do so much!
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