Reply #561: Graduation from high school should require only 9th grade skills. [View All]

[TexasObserver]

I responded to this thread earlier because I do think basic algebra skills are preferable.

However, I also don't believe it should be necessary to do algebra to graduate high school. I would prefer they learn first how to read and write, then do basic math. If they can count change, make a budget, and balance a checkbook, they're ready for their first step into adulthood.

We try to teach kids entirely too much now, and in the end, they learn much less than they once did. Volume of educational materials doesn't matter if most students don't process or retain them.

I'd like to see middle school and high school made more practical, with controls on how much information can be thrown at them.