"It calls for big changes -- requiring every student to take rigorous math and English regardless of career plans, and tying college admissions to high school exit exams, as examples."
The New Orleans school system is in big trouble.
"The New Orleans school system is in big trouble"
Then entire N.O. apparatus is in big trouble if they, the powers that be, don't get the school system fixed and soon!
I'm curious. Do you know what the quality of the teachers and administrators in New Orleans is?
I left high school just before graduation in 1960, because I was a testosterone driven horse's patootie. In 1978, I walked in, signed up, and took the GED exams. I was the valedictorian. I do OK, but I ain't that smart! The GED was elementary.
I finished all requirements for My AA, in 18 months with a 3.6 GPA, while working enough hours each week to keep My Family fed and sheltered. That was elementary, as well.
We bought into the theory that everyone is entitled to a high school diploma, everyone is entitled to a college education, and We devalued the very things We value so much.
I should have gone on for a PHD, just couldn't listen to all those left wing professors any more.