Student retention has always been a complex issue driven by a combination of things throughout the years. With Covid-19’s impact, teacher shortages, slashes in school budgets, and more, student retention has become a bigger issue within recent years. Here are 4 ways to combat student retention within K-12 learning.
Teacher-Student Connection
One of the most influential factors in student retention is the relationship students have with their teachers. Personal connections in the classroom create a positive learning environment where students feel valued, supported, and motivated. Teachers can help nurture relationships with their students by building empathy, using effective communication, and studying social-emotional learning techniques. Being patient and calm, especially in times when students approach their educators in confidence and help find the best resource for the situation.
Personalized Learning
Adjusting curriculum to be more relevant to all students’ lives is an immediate, tangible, and a simple way to fix the disengagement that leads to skipping classes. Personalization enhances engagement and motivation by increasing personal interest, creates an ownership of learning, helps have better knowledge retention, and incorporates more collaboration and communication within the classroom.
Supportive Academic Services
Providing comprehensive academic support services is vital for retaining students, particularly those who may be struggling or have disabilities. Schools should offer services like tutoring, mentoring, and counselling to assist students in overcoming challenges. These services lead to bridging learning gaps, improving academic performance, and fostering a more positive attitude towards education.
Parental Involvement
Parents can get involved in their child’s education through volunteering, attending school events, participating in decision-making, and helping with homework and studying. Increasing community engagement is a cost-effective way to create and nurture educational success and provide support. Research globally shows that students with engaged parents are more likely to attend school regularly, achieve higher grades, and have a positive attitude toward education. Parents showing an interest in a big part of students’ lives and getting regular updates help students succeed both academically and socially.
Do you know of any other ways your school uses for students’ retention? Let us know in the comments!
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