Repeating a grade can be disastrous for a student. This is true almost everywhere but not in Middle City School District in New York, where students sometimes go to kindergarten twice. These students may be repeaters but unlike the common perception of repeaters being slow learners, these students turn out to be standouts.
The District focused on the individual needs of each child. Those who need extra instruction are allowed to repeat a grade without getting the stigma.
The public school district's leaders changed their education system by offering personalized learning to a diversified group of students. Under the non-traditional practice, the lessons and pace are tailored to each child's needs.
Social promotion has become a thing of the past for the District, according to Hechinger Report. By customizing their lessons, even students who struggle start to learn well. This has resulted in improved scores in examinations and ultimately, increased rates in graduations.
According to The Atlantic, Pittsfield Middle School located in New Hampshire is now in its third year of offering a student-cantered learning system, for students in Grade 7 to 12. Under this innovative educational system, students are left alone to discuss ideas while their teacher stays on the side. Senior student Noah Manteau said this is a lot better than teachers doing all the talking and moving on, even if the students are not yet ready.
Personalized learning is a concept that is being promoted all over the world but Education Week said no one has really fully grasped its meaning. Many agree that it generally refers to customized or tailor-made lessons for students.
Meanwhile, the potential of personalized learning has been recognized by the Districts. Experts believe that with the use of technology, there is a way to meet the demands of a diverse student population. With customized learning, students are able to get lessons depending on their skill level.
