Grade Retention: Is It a Help or Hindrance to Student Academic Success?

Abstract

Research indicates that while grade retention does not typically increase student performance, it is widely practiced in schools throughout the country. Arguments for retaining a child include immaturity, the belief that an extra year of schooling will produce successful academic outcomes, and failure to meet criteria for promotion. Those who oppose retention contend that it is not beneficial to students' academic progress, the financial cost and cost to children's self-esteem are too great, and it has a correlative relationship with dropping out of school. In this article, the author reviews: (a) retention policies, (b) the cost of retention, (c) factors that contribute to retention, (d) the effect of increased academic standards, (e) alternatives to retention. Finally, the author provides implications for the practice of retention and promotion policies.