AJC.com > Blogs > Get Schooled > Archives > 2008 > September > 25
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Who needs college?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I want to piggyback on a few of the responses to yesterday’s topic about forcing kids to take algebra before they are academically ready.
Schools have long argued more kids need algebra as a prerequisite for college. But do all students need college?
With each generation, a larger percentage of high school graduates have enrolled in four-year colleges. Studies show we overwhelmingly believe that almost all high school graduates should go to college. There is this idea that a college degree is mandatory for success.
But is this true? Some argue that we are pushing many unqualified students into college. They say many of these students drop out, while others are stuck paying off college loans for years.
Others argue high school guidance counselors should advise students to be more realistic. Counselors could encourage less motivated students to start at a two-year colleges or enroll in vocational training programs instead.
By pushing the idea of college for all, are we setting up some students to fail?
