I Need Parenting Advice

[joelsgirl]

My oldest son is in 9th grade, and he is failing three classes. He doesn't turn in assignments or study for tests. He's smart enough, and he participates in class. He just doesn't do anything outside of class (and even the work he does in class is sloppy and halfway done.).

We have had this struggle since he entered middle school, but now that he's in high school it's gotten worse. He has a study hall and tells us that he's done all of his homework there, but clearly that isn't true.

We have a good relationship with him; he's not moody or emotional like teenagers often are, but we cannot get him to care about his grades. He isn't motivated by rewards or punishments. His teachers are supportive and encouraging, but it doesn't matter. He just doesn't care.

Surely someone else has been there & found a way to survive, right??? I'll take any advice; we're getting desperate.