In high achieving schools, the expectations of parents and teachers can be intense. Getting top grades puts kids under unhealthy levels of stress. And is it even necessary? According to school counselor and therapist, Phyllis Fagel, “It’s not clear what grades even mean any more. In today’s Digital Age, with this many variables [contributing to our kids’ chances for success in the workplace] I think people are just trying to control whatever they can. And grades is one of them.” Many colleges are beginning to broaden their perspective to include more than just a student’s GPA when considering applicants. That’s an important step in the right direction. Anxious parents may also be recognizing that grades, per se, don’t define a child, but they’re not sure what does. Annie talks with Phyllis about the myth of the Straight A student and how character development fits into success in the workplace and in life.
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About Phyllis Fagell (@Pfagell)
Phyllis L. Fagell, LCPC is the school counselor at the Sheridan School in Washington, D.C. and a licensed clinical professional counselor at Chrysalis Group Inc. in Bethesda. She is a regular contributor to the Washington Post where she writes about education, social emotional learning, counseling, and parenting. Read Phyllis’ Washington Post columns here.
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