I always thought theat the Final Exams in each subject determined a pass or fail. Instead of “lowering” the standards for the students how about “RAISING” the standards for the teachers.
They tried that a few years back, in Massachusetts of all places! Over 60% of the new teachers flunked the basic knowledge test!
Seeing the abysmal results, the governor wanted to make sure those already teaching in the schools weren't of the same quality, but the teachers’ union howled to prevent it.
I don't know if they still test new teachers for competency or not.