How nice that you're so involved and care so much for your kids. I think you'll do a great job. I would never let ateacher yell at my children. It only scares them, makes them learn less, and is a form of abuse. You're a great mom!

Thank you so much for all the responses. I am actually looking into either home schooling the ones I need to and or summer school. I have had several people including family encourage me. As far as their teaching I went as far and pulled my two younger ones out of Shalimar and put into longwood elem. due to the fact that the teachers were not teaching my children how I felt they needed to be taught. I don't believe you have to yell at a child to make a point. my daughters kindergarten teacher came to me and said she knows NONE of her ABC's and sounds therefore she will be retained if not learned I disagreed with her and said I have hooked on phonics at home and she does fabulous with me yes she might miss a few letters but not all of them. I was always having run ins like that with my second grader and daughter. Now they are in a differ school and they are doing wonderful so far so I am taking the steps to help them but I never thought of summer school or home schooling until tonight. I just don't think it benefits a child to be retained all it does is lower their self esteem and I am sure people might argue that comment. I am a very involved parent and to have the schools here decide whether my children move forward or not I don't think its there place that's for a parent to decide. And yes I do too worry that they might struggle the next year if pushed through but that's when summer school can help as well or now that I know this next year I can be on top of things and if they are a little behind nip it in the rear before its to late. I feel for people who move here and have to go through what I have been through. If I knew what I know now about this state not sure if we would have moved here.

I am sure this is frustrating to you and your children! Growing up in a Utah school district and seeing what kids are learning in the state I now live in, I can see why the move has been a challenge for your children.

I would suggest you speak to the school and see what steps you and your children could take to have them promoted next year. Then determine whether or not those steps are feasible for your family. Remember, the kids have a full year of learning to do between now and the start of the 2009-2010 school year. You might decide as a family to push through to get them promoted. Or, you might determine it is in their best interest to make new friends and enjoy their summer vacation if their new home. Even though you must be frustrated, try to remain positive for the kids and ensure they know this is not their fault. They cannot expect to know something they have never been exposed to!

If you find there's nothing to change the situation make sure you don't let your children think negatively. As hard as that may seem. If you have the time, you can home school till you get them past the level of what that school wants. One on one schooling can work miracles, and the quality time would be beneficial for the kids.

((Hugs)) Unfortunately, it is true that many parents mistakenly believe that education from one state to the next is the same, and it isn't. community.greatschools.net/advice/184/Helpful-websites-when-seeking-info-about-HOW-SCHOOLS-COMPARE-STATE-TO-STATE-

It sounds like your children may have failed to pass the FCATs? I know private school children in FL don't have to take the FCAT, so one option might be to move your children into private schools, but on the other hand, if they're struggling, and don't have the same level of academic background as other kids, wouldn't it be acceptable to allow them to catch up? IF you only had one child, I can understand where they might feel embarassed or upset, but it seems like you could explain to all of your children that it's in their best interest, because schools where you came from just didn't cover as much material. In other words, it's not your children's fault, but the schools where they came from. Now they have an opportunity to learn more, and that will help them be stronger students later on.

As far as your child who was previously held back, I can't help but wonder if he's ever had a comprehensive educational evaluation for learning disabilities or attentional issues? It sounds like he's got some specific difficulties that may require an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) because he may learn in ways that differ from typical students. You should request that the public school do an evaluation for suspected LDs (you'll have to submit your request in writing.) You might like to join us in the Learning and Attention Difficulties Group at community.greatschools.net/groups/11554

I think you might need to talk to the school about a summer program - or a supplemental program - that might get your kids where they need to be to proceed to the next grade. I am curious, what is happening now as far as their teaching? - From what you have said about the law in Florida - they must be behind grade level now. I think it is worth finding out what can be done now - so your children are receiving the services they need for the balance of this school year as well!
Let us know!

Would it be possible for you children to take summer school. I understand that you do not want them to be retained, but I would worry about them struggling next year, if they are not ready. Best of luck.