More than 6 million youngsters are enrolled in California’s K-12 schools, a number higher than the populations of 33 states.
The diversity of those kids – in ethnicity, economic situation, intelligence and innate capacity for learning – is probably wider than any of those states.
If we have 6 million-plus unique individuals, why then do we try to stuff them into a one-size-fits-all educational system? Shouldn’t we, to the extent possible, tailor their educations to their individual circumstances and traits?
In addition to the vital basics, shouldn’t we offer challenging academic studies to the gifted and college-bound, extra instructional help to those with learning disabilities, and solid technical classes for those suited by interest and aptitude for skilled trades?
Yes, we should. But for reasons that defy common sense, many of our larger school districts assume that all students are bound for four-year colleges, even though a relatively small number of those who make it through high school will, in fact, earn bachelor degrees.
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