Strategies for Student Success: Grade Acceleration in Schools

Grade acceleration is a term used to describe the act of enhancing skills development by advancing students through educational programs at more rapid rates, or at younger ages (McClarty, 2015). Both parents and educators are often unsure whether grade acceleration is beneficial. Many believe, erroneously, that acceleration results in negative social outcomes. Most studies, however, suggest that acceleration is a positive experience for students. Acceleration allows talented individuals the opportunity to engage in academic challenges commensurate with skill attainment and ability levels (Wells, Lohman, & Marron, 2009).