Based on the information in the post., Iif all the student has earned is a D., Tthe teacher should give the student the D. We all have to endure hardships in life; whether it's being from a single parent household, or being a single parent. By the teacher allowing the student to fail now, Hthe/s teacher wouilld be preparing the student for future obstacles. This would also allow the student anthe opportunity to address the issue. The actual issue is that the student is focused on the future, not the present. She needs to address the present, while preparing for the future. I would explain to the student the importance of prioritizing,. iIf you focus on Hhigh Sschool, and good grades, theire are scholarships, grants, and other avenues to pay for college.