Edgy I agree,

It's like having a kid that keeps coming home with "F's" on their report card.

You sit down with the kid and say, "Can you explain why the report card is once again a failure?"

Kid answers:

"The fact is ....I have been doing very remarkable work. There is no question I have had challenges..but I want you to know that getting good grades is an absolute priority. I will continue to do extraordinary work."

Parent says:

Are you paying more attention at school, are you doing your homework, are you studying more? What are your timelines since you are doing this "remarkable extraordinary work?

Can I expect a move from F's to at least C's on the next report card?"

Kid says:

"Again, parent, I am grateful that we had an opportunity to have this kind of conversation.

I am grateful to you for the ass whooping and for your interest. I realize it is critical that I get good grades. But, understand that I have never had a good grade before. It's not just simply about achieving a good grade. It's about......

Parent says:

"Sorry to cut you off kid ..but..you did set a target of a few "C's" in 2015. I've been paying for 6 private tutors to help you which are costing me a bundle@!"

How do you explain your failure to met your own target?"

Kid says:

Again, parent, I am really really grateful to have this opportunity to have this kind of conversation with you. I am grateful for you reporting this to me and for your recommendations of more studying, more paying attention and for finishing my homework.

I recognize getting good grades is crucial. I am not just keen in getting better grades because it is not that simple. It's about having an opportunity to have better relations with my teachers, a chance to have the principal of the school to know and better understand me...

Parent:

I don't want to hear another piece of crap out of your mouth. You are grounded.