Parent to Parent: Making the Grade: Successful student

"A lot of it has to do with a positive attitude toward education, regardless of student's abilities," said Flynn.

And the 2006 teacher of the year, Suzanne Wintle said it all starts at home.

"I think if parents respect learning and education, respect teachers, the kids will too," said Wintle.

All right, pencils down, time for a pop quiz.

Question 1: Is it better to be smart in school or curious?
Kevin said, "Smart"
Jordan said, "Curious"
Teacher's Answer: Curious, Jordan scores a point!

"The key ingredient is curiosity. A good student is curious. They have a thirst for learning," said Wintle.

Wintle said labeling a child smart can sometimes backfire, but a curious kid will always go farther. And if your kid isn't naturally curious, she said to expose them to many different things.

"You need to kind of nurture and develop their interests and passions."

Question 2: If you don't know the answer to a homework problem, should you:
A. Leave it blank, because you don't want to make a mistake.
B. Give it a shot anyway?

"I would keep reading it over and over again until I get so, then I would write down the answer," said Andrew.

"I would just give it a shot and if I got it wrong try it again next time," said Alex.

Teacher's answer: Both Andrew and Alex got it right, always give it a shot and don't be afraid to make a mistake!

"They're all going to make mistakes," said the teacher.

One of the goals of teachers is to help kids see that the mistakes are opportunities for more learning," said Flynn.

Question 3: What's most important?
A. Respecting others
B. Working hard
C. Having pride in your work.

Kevin said, "Have pride in your work."

Jordan said, "Respect others."

Andrew said, "Have respect in others"

Alex said, "Work hard."

Teacher's answer: All of the above. Everyone got it right!

And finally, the last component to having a successful student is parent involvement.

"I don't think there is a teacher alive who wouldn't welcome a conversation with the parent," said Wintle.

Both of our teachers say that is key to a good education.

So all you curious, respectful, hard-working students - summer's over, get ready to "Make The Grade!"

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