Academic Derogation and Early School Entry
An academic derogation or an early school entry is a measure of exception given to children born after September 30, whose cognitive abilities and preschool progression have been identified as sufficient to warrant an early entry into kindergarten or 1st grade. A derogation becomes relevant when the child shows a particularly developed intelligence, signs of socio-affective maturity as well as a curiosity and a predisposition to learning, which would enable him to progress without prejudice and at his own speed on a personal, social, developmental and academic level.
During a derogation for early school entry, the psychologist or neuropsychologist conducts a cognitive and behavioral assessment of the child’s level and skills, by looking into three main areas of functioning. Quebec’s Order of Psychologists (OPQ) has in fact established specific criteria and ask that the three following spheres be investigated: