Flagged for Success

“FLAGGED FOR SUCCESS”

A red flag early warning system enables a teacher to CATCH students before they free fall into failure.

Can students fall through the cracks without notice?

How could this happen?

Do I need to set up RED FLAGS – to make sure I do not miss ONE?

The answer to these questions is YES, YES, YES!

Robyn Jackson, the author of this article set a standard of 75% as her red flag to begin a watch – thus an intervention began.

An intervention is any type of class help/ study strategy / review package/ teacher attentiveness / that can aid the student in achieving success.

The THREE types of students to be flagged:

1. The quiet downward slide – “Ben got a 74 and was a good kid…but now his homework began to falter…concern. After looking into it further Ben’s home life was falling apart…divorce and anger were affecting his studies.” Intervention is the love a child needs to help them gain back what has been lost. Follow- ups and careful attention is a wonderful intervention that goes a long way.

2. The uncooperative and disengaged – the student who is challenged from the beginning; will they pay attention; will they give up? They are the students who fight the help, they look to avoid your assistance; but with persistence you can reach them.

3. The far behind student – this is the student who sets off all red flags – does bad in class, tests, homework and so on. This student takes our best effort to get him on track – intervention and follow-up after follow-up. Will they use the strategies you offer to help them achieve? Some students need help just to pass – are you willing to put in the effort/love?

Rules for Establishing RED FLAGS

· You want a clear signal – make a cutoff point where there is no question that they need intervention. (% Grade)

· NEVER ignore a red flag – once established – follow through.

· Red flags should focus on academic concerns, not on student behaviors – this is another topic on discipleship. You will find when an academic concern arises, a life / spiritual struggle could be involved as well.

Personal note – EVERY student is precious to us – that is why we TEACH…because we love what we do and who they are. A RED FLAG is a sign from God to help us help them…AMEN!