"Too many people are going to college."
This blasphemy from controversial social critic Charles Murray in his book "Real Education" should not be immediately dismissed, but hotly debated as Colorado evaluates school reform. Considering three-quarters of high school students go on to college, but less than one-third of Americans currently has a bachelor's degree, Murray may be right about our focus on four-year colleges.
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A very interesting, insightful opinion piece. The writer, a current teacher, is well versed in current educational innovations in other school districts in the U.S. Offers solutions to problems he sees within education. Well written.
However, in an innovative response to calls for education reform, New Hampshire recently revealed a plan that allows high school graduation at 16. That’s not the ability to drop out, but graduate. Students who’ve completed sophomore year can test in to community colleges or trade schools. Students who remain in high school will take a more rigorous college-prep curriculum based on the AP or IB model, and they will subsequently take tests for admittance into a four-year university. The idea reflects a school reform model called “Tough Choices, Tough Times,” and it resembles European and Asian school systems. It also would be much more efficient, saving the time of students and millions of dollars in school funding. Some sources estimate this type of reform could save $60 billion a year if enacted nationwide.
Interesting New Hampshire program — this is the first time I’ve heard of it.