Term: Grade Retention

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2010-08-16

Definition:

In Kindergarten to Grade 8, grade retention is defined as a student's enrollment in the same grade for two consecutive years. In Grade 9, students older than the modal age for grade were identified as being retained. (Guevremont et al., 2007).

NOTE: Schools and school divisions in Manitoba no longer use the term "grade retention" to describe students who are enrolled in the same grade for two consecutive years. Instead, the term Continuing Student is used to describe students who have not acquired the minimum expectations/outcomes to proceed to the next grade level, and are continuing in the program at the same grade level for part or all of the next school year. (Martens et al. 2010).

For more information, please read the Continuing Student / Grade Repetition concept.

Related concepts 

• Continuing Student / Grade Repetition

Related terms 

• Continuing Student
• Grade Repetition
• Retention - Education related

References 

• Guevremont A, Roos NP, Brownell M. Predictors and consequences of grade retention: Examining data from Manitoba, Canada. Can J School Psychol 2007;22(1):50-67. [Abstract] (View)
• Martens PJ, Bartlett J, Burland E, Prior H, Burchill C, Huq S, Romphf L, Sanguins J, Carter S, Bailly A. Profile of Metis Health Status and Healthcare Utilization in Manitoba: A Population-Based Study. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2010. [Report] [Summary] [Updates and Errata] [Additional Materials] (View)