Helping or Hurting: The Effects of Grade Retention on Student Outcomes

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Three
  In Roundtable Session: Patterns in Policy Implementation and Student Achievement (Table 3)

Abstract

Grade retention policies are intended to support struggling third graders in U.S. schools every year. Nevertheless, the research literature on the impacts of test-based grade retention is surprisingly thin. Using Indiana’s test-based third grade retention policy, this proposed project will provide a comprehensive analysis of the effects of mandatory test-based retention policies on academic and behavioral trajectories. My analysis will offer valuable policy information by providing empirical evidence on the impacts of grade retention for both short- and longer-term student outcomes. Moreover, my findings will reveal whether the effects of grade retention are more or less beneficial (or harmful) across different student populations.

Author

• NaYoung Hwang, University of New Hampshire
  Presenting Author