Before you jump the gun and assume that the fault lies with the school, which it may well, I suggest you sit down with your daughters, separately, and just gently try to find out what is troubling them. It may not have anything to do with the homework load. Also, have the girls checked out by their pediatrician just to make sure they are not abusing their health. Based on the outcome of these efforts, you will better be able to deduce where the problem lies. If, indeed, the problem is the school, seeing that your children are able to maintain high grades in spite of the pressure, offer them the option of changing schools but don’t be surprised if they turn you down. Fourteen and sixteen are traumatic ages for girls (really every age is traumatic for girls!) what with all the mental, emotional and physical changes they go through, so it’s not unusual for them to go through any number of situations. Just be alert, stay on top of it by talking to them and always be supportive, understanding and encouraging. With any luck, you’ll all survive and you will see much nachas from all your children.
And since you actually asked the readership to help you on this one, I’m glad to throw it out there and get outside opinions! Anyone out there with ideas, please feel free to send them in.