I think the most important question is, what does your son want? At his age, he should be starting to think forward.
Also, is it possible that looking at this question from another perspective would be helpful? The real goal is to get a degree, not just an acceptance letter in 12th grade.
Test scores are important, but so are grades and an ability to finish assignments on time (maybe his teachers have a point about trying harder). If your son is having trouble with these tasks in a familiar environment where his family is present, how will he do in an unfamiliar environment with no family around? Could you find yourselves spending a fortune for a freshman transcript with a lot of Ds on it?
Community college can be a wonderful way to step into college without having to leave the support of home. It’s also inexpensive (free where we live), making it a good place to explore interests and potential interests. Staying at home takes some pressure off and gives kids extra time to mature. It’s also possible to get a part-time job while taking classes.
