I agree that report cards should not include the word, 'fail'. It can easily become a self-fulfilling prophecy if internalized at a young age.

Children are always learning something. Maybe its not what the school is assessing that term, but they are learning. Maybe they are learning to deal with social or emotional issues. They need to be given the time to 'turn around' and we should not apply the same standards to children that adults must face in the workplace. I'm talking about elementary aged students.

We use the term, "in progress" or "has not met the widely held expectations for his/her grade level". This gives the student the opportunity to re-think their performance. Failure implies finality. I think that all students should have the opportunity to 'pull up their socks' but at the same time, parents need to know that their child is not producing at grade level.

Whats wrong with 'high, average and needs improvement?'

Thanks to all who have mentioned that teaching is not "an easy option." It is actually, 'a calling". Nobody could survive the system unless you believe that education is societies best hope. Its a thankless job but when a student 'gets it', its all worth it - nevermind the public, the parents and the administration. Dealing with a zillion 'bosses' is what you really get paid for. Its the 'job' part of being a teacher.

When I attended University there were 800 applicants for 200 seats in the professional development portion of the teaching program. To be considered, you needed a very high, grade point average and experience working with children. The waiting list was very, very long. I would hardly call that a 'can't' attitude or an 'easy option'. When you are in professional development, you are put under the microscope. You are videotaped and critiqued for eight months. What other jobs require such a high level of competence?