Dayton Daily News education reporter Scott Elliott writes about schools, kids, teaching and learning.
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Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Speaking of rigorous …
Lots of interesting education news going on this week in Ohio. On Wednesday, it was a big chunk of education proposals in Gov. Bob Taft’s state of the state address. Taft is calling for higher standards and increased graduation requirements for high school students. And he wants to make four-year colleges for the college-ready only — no more remedial classes. If you need remedial help, Taft says you belong in community college.
That’s an interesting question. Some argue that Ohio has great community colleges, like Sinclair here in Dayton, that might actually do a better job of preparing underachievers for college work and help limit flunk outs. And families could save money while kids find their way and learn some grown up responsibility.
But around our newsroom others debated that a four-year college experience, away from home with lots of programs of study to explore, is a great way to find your personal direction in life, take ownership of your future and if you’re behind, bring yourself up to speed. Perhaps for some, two more years living at home and going to community college could be stifling and discouraging.
Whether community colleges could even handle the influx of potentially thousands of kids who might not make it to university under such a rule is another question to consider.
What do you think of Taft’s proposals? Should remedial courses, and the students who need them, be reserved for community colleges?
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