Parents need to be enlightened

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Updated: March 5, 2012 8:01AM

Dr. Wallace: I’m 14, and my older sister is 16. She is very bright and always gets excellent grades. My grades are always just average or slightly above. This means that I’m put on restriction often and denied going to after-school functions because I “need more study time,” according to Mom and Dad. But even though I study a lot, I wind up with C’s and an occasional B. During the winter break, my mother wouldn’t let me attend my best friend’s Christmas party because I’m getting a C in English, instead of a B.

Because of her good grades, my sister gets to go anywhere and do anything she wants. I do love my sister, but we have different interests. She is active in most school activities, and all I’m interested in is sports. I’m a very good pitcher in softball, and I start at guard for the basketball team. Please tell me what I can do to get my parents to treat me fairly.

Nameless, Austin, Texas

Nameless: Not all siblings have the same capacity to get excellent grades.

Speak with your school counselor or administrator and share your dilemma. This professional will understand. Ask that your parents meet this educator who will enlighten them to the fact that punishing you for doing your very best in school is not the best way to encourage you to enjoy school and to enjoy being an important family member.

Write to Dr. Wallace
at rwallace@galesburg.net