DJ's Nine Week Report

I don't get to write much about DJ's progress in school, mainly because he is in school this year and I'm not teaching him.  The school he attends is actually a big one, with 200 students in the 8th grade.  The 8th graders are divided up into "teams" with each their own set of teachers.  DJ's team is the "Hoosiers."  He has really enjoyed going to school and is excited about what he is studying this year.  Since he is in the high ability classes, he gets to stretch his brain a little more, since more is expected of him.  

He received his nine week report card on Friday.  I really wasn't sure what my expectations should be of DJ, since this is his first time going to a public school, and a pretty big one at that.  Should I not be too hard on him if he can't keep up with his studies, since there is so much for him to adjust to?  Will he be able to stay organized?  Will he remember to bring his books home to study?  Will he study? 

I've tried to challenge him since he started school to bring his books home and study, even if he doesn't "feel" he needs to.  He has done his share of listening and not listening to my advice!  And, when he brought home his report card, he confessed he was a little bit disappointed.  "I guess I should start to study a little harder, Mom." is what I was greeted with.  "Oh, great.  What does THAT mean?" I thought to myself.  As he handed me his report card, and I finally had this "measurement" (be how imperfect it is~grades, I mean) I was a little relieved to see how he is progressing in school.  

One thing that I am glad has stuck with DJ is his progress is important to him.  He cares how he is doing as much as what he is learning.  So, when he told me he was going to "step it up" in regards to studying harder, I was happy!  I have been telling him over and over he needs to develop good study habits, but no matter how much I try, my desire for him to do that won't make it happen.  He has to have that desire, not me.  So, him confessing to me the importance of studying, was one little victory.

DJ gave me permission to post his report card, as long as I mention he plans on getting his grades up by the end of the semester!  You go DJ!