We’ve all had that one student who just can’t seem to remember to do their homework. But what happens when the consequences of their forgetfulness could change their entire academic future? One middle school teacher was faced with this exact dilemma when their student, Zach, consistently failed to complete assignments and was on the verge of failing 7th grade. The teacher’s decision has left the internet divided, and we’re here to share the story with you.
The Struggles of Virtual Learning ️

Zach’s Forgetfulness ♂️

Attempts to Help Zach

Grading Policy

Teacher’s Discretion

A Chance for Redemption

The Moment of Truth ⏰

Failing the Course

Repeating 7th Grade

Second Thoughts? ♀️

A Tough Decision with Lasting Consequences
This teacher found themselves in a difficult situation when their student, Zach, consistently forgot to do his homework and was on the brink of failing 7th grade. Despite attempts to help him remember and even offering a last-chance assignment, Zach still failed to complete the work. The teacher ultimately decided to fail Zach, causing him to repeat the grade. Now, they’re left wondering if they made the right decision. Let’s dive into the top responses from the internet to see what people think about this controversial situation!
NTA. Teacher did everything possible to help the student.

Undiagnosed ADHD suspected as cause of student’s academic struggles

Undiagnosed learning disabilities and mental health issues should be considered.

Concerned commenter suggests testing for learning disabilities and mood disorders

Teacher fails student, but commenters suggest ADHD evaluation for him.

NTA gives student a reality check, with summer school suggestion

Teacher’s worksheet solution questioned, YTA verdict in comments

Teacher goes above and beyond to help student, but is it enough?

Student fails two subjects, repeats 7th grade. NTA.

Commenter suggests teacher is the a**hole, questions student’s home life.

Retaining students during a pandemic? YTA.

Undiagnosed ADHD can ruin lives. Advocate for mental health evaluations.

Former teacher calls out original commenter for failing student alone.

Fair expectations set, consequences upheld. NTA

Importance of considering personal issues affecting academic performance

Suggesting special education resources for struggling student with empathy ❤️

Debate over whether holding back a struggling student is helpful

Debate over grading compliance versus mastery of concepts

Online learning challenges and personal issues may impact student success
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Early intervention and accommodations could’ve made a huge difference. YTA
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Retaining students has negative lifelong effects, referral for intervention needed.

Failing a student can have lasting negative effects.

Math is foundational, failing would set him back. Mixed opinions.

Virtual school isn’t for everyone

Compassionate suggestion for helping struggling students

Supportive comment suggests ADHD or dyslexia testing for struggling student.

NTA, student didn’t take chances to fix grades.

Homework vs Math skills: What should determine a student’s grade?

Teacher’s grading based on student’s ability to perform: YTA or NTA?

Importance of checking for ADHD before failing a struggling student

NTA. Teacher followed proper steps and gave generous accommodations.

Grade retention has negative effects, ESH in this situation
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Rewarding laziness? NTA comment stands firm

Parent shares personal experience with student struggling in school due to possible undiagnosed ADHD. Commenter suggests evaluating for inattentive ADHD.

Commenter not the a**hole for supporting student’s academic rights.

NAH except parents failing child. Real-world consequences may help Zach.

When sarcasm meets frustration in the comment section

Teacher fails student due to pandemic, causing him to repeat grade

Commenter points out teacher’s lack of support for struggling student.

Failing needs to happen early so they understand.
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Parental involvement crucial in ensuring completion of homework

Student fails math, gets 3 chances, learns actions have consequences.
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Retaining students past 3rd grade has more social impact.

Teacher fails student, but commenter defends teacher’s decision.

Debate over authenticity of story and IEP necessity for student.

Expert counselor and teacher supports NTA and suggests IEP for Zach

Understanding the struggles of ADHD students. Help them succeed.

Chunking assignments and setting smaller goals could help struggling students
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Teaching responsibility: NTA for failing a student.

Suggesting ADHD testing for struggling student
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Teacher struggles with failing students despite admin pressure for passing.

Commenter defends teacher’s decision, suggests student has ADHD.

ADHD and academic failure: a devastating impact

Zack’s parents at fault? NTA comment sparks discussion
