As the new school year begins all over the globe, our children will engage in a series of tests to assess where they are and what level of instruction they will receive this school year.
As parents we are establishing schedules and implementing organizational processes for our children to ensure their success.
At the start of the school year we are just as eager as our children but perhaps for different reasons.
We may ask ourselves, "Am I pushing too hard?"; "How much is enough?".
The problem is that we may find ourselves bumping up against a wall of mediocrity and "average-ness".
Generally, curriculum is geared towards the average child; however, you may not be striving for average.
This goes for both public and private schools.
So how do you walk the fine line of advocating for your child and not appearing arrogant? I have come to this conclusion: If you don't speak up for excellence for your child, average he or she will become.
I know that in order for your child to succeed in this world, average is not going to cut it.
In fact above average will barely separate your child from the pack.
Excellence must be the goal.
Therefore you must meet "early and often" with your child's teacher.
Let the teacher know that you know your child's abilities and weaknesses.
Develop a plan to improve your childs strengths and weaknesses.
Never agree with the easy route such as "keeping the class altogether".
If your child needs more, demand the same.
Supplementing a curriculum where needed should be expected for children who need more or additional assistance.
Depending on the number of children in your child's classroom or the pedagogy of the teacher, this may or may not be initiated by your child's teacher.
That's why it is so important that you establish yourself as your child's advocate.
As an advocate it is important to be realistic about the facts.
Do not subject your child to work that is too far beyond his or her ability just to prove a point.
By the same token be sure to not become complacent with your child skating through for the sake of having a star student.
Constantly assess your child's comfort level and challenge him or her slightly pass that point.
Pushing too hard can only create a level of frustration for everyone involved.
Most importantly, have the end goal in mind: Success and excellence at whatever level your child is.
I urge you.
No, I beg you to speak out against "average-ness" and raise your voice for excellence in education.
Excellence in education should be more than words on a banner or slogan for your local school district.
It has to be the guiding light for our educational endeavors for our children.
That is if you want them to compete to succeed.