Let's talk exit exams.

They're also questions all 26 states that require these exams are

grappling with.

 

In this USA Today article, Maryland School Superintendent Nancy Grasmick is a perfect case-in-point. She wants to tie Maryland's high school diploma to an exit exam but worries, like many in this state, about the students that might not pass those tests.

 

The article offers two points of view in response to this valid concern. The first is to offer students "seat-time" diplomas if they can't pass the test. Some states, like Massachusetts, give similar diplomas or "certificates of attainment" that basically means that students have met local graduation requirements, but not the high state standard.

 

The opposing view from Grasmick is that different diplomas aren't the answer. That rigorous standards and accountability are needed to measure instructional effectiveness to ensure that all schools, no matter if it's in a wealthy neighborhood, poor neighborhood, homogenous neighborhood or diverse neighborhood, are held to the same instructional standard. Therefore, the education system is forced to provide (as best they can!) all students with the same quality of education. Plus, Grasmick notes, having one high standard in her state has resulted in students rising to the challenge.

 

Grasmick is also a proponent of alternative paths to the same standards. And for those students with special needs (i.e. Special Ed, ELL students, etc.) she believes another measure of success is necessary. But one that is of equal rigor to the exit exam rather than one that is awarded simply for showing up to class.

 

Grasmick is spot on.

 

We can't stress it enough -- higher standards benefit ALL kids. It helps to close the achievement gap (see results from our Nation's Report Card for more) because it provides a framework for an equal, quality education for all students. No matter a child's family background or challenges he/she may face, research shows that the higher the bar is set, the more likely a student will rise to meet it.

 

Continuing to hand out "seat-time" diplomas that do not adequately arm students with the skills they'll need for life after high school helps no one. In fact, it just hinders their chances for success after graduation day.