Is your child struggling in school? Step in as soon as you think there's a problem - before he or she falls too far behind. Start by talking to your child's teachers; see what help your  school can offer. If you need more assistance, Indiana has resources to help.

Remedial Courses

Remedial courses provide the extra help students may need to better learn a subject, to pass the Graduation Qualifying Exam, to graduate from high school or to prepare for college-level courses. Talk to your student's school counselor to determine the remedial courses offered in your child's high school.

Tutoring

Tutoring is often the best or only way for your student to get the intensive or personalized help he or she may require. Teachers have limited time to provide one-on-one support. A tutor, on the other hand, devotes full attention to your student. Tutors can analyze strengths and weaknesses and focus on trouble spots. A tutor may be a high school upperclassman or local college student.

If you think your middle school student would benefit from tutoring, check with his or her teachers or school counselor.

Mentoring

A mentor is someone who leads by example and gives advice one-on-one. Mentors use their own experience to guide students through academic, social or emotional issues. If you think your child could use more help in any of these areas, a mentor might be the best option.

Mentors can be upperclassmen who show new students around the high school or help with homework. Mentors can come from local businesses and share their work experiences and encourage students to explore their own career interests.

Ask your student's school counselor if there is a mentoring program established at school. If not, work with your student to decide how a mentor can help. Then make a list of all the people your child trusts and thinks would be a good mentor. Include relatives, neighbors, teachers, coaches or adult friends.